When many people think about vaccines, they picture childhood checkups and school immunization records. But staying up to date on vaccines is important throughout adulthood, too.

Vaccines help protect against serious illnesses that can lead to hospitalization, long-term health problems, or even death. They also help reduce the spread of disease, protecting family members, friends, coworkers, and others in the community. As we age, our immune systems naturally become less effective, making certain vaccines even more important.

"Many adults assume the vaccines they received as children will protect them for life, but that's not always the case," says Riverside primary care provider Dr. Santosh Bhat. "Vaccines are an important part of preventive care at every age. Staying up to date helps protect not only your own health, but the health of the people around you."

Vaccines Every Adult Should Know About

While vaccine recommendations vary based on your age, health history, occupation, and travel plans, these are some of the most common vaccines adults should discuss with their primary care provider.

Flu vaccine: Everyone should receive a flu vaccine every year. Influenza changes from season to season, so annual vaccination offers the best protection against serious illness.

Tdap or Td vaccine: Adults should receive one Tdap vaccine if they haven't had one as an adult, followed by a tetanus (Td or Tdap) booster every 10 years. This vaccine also protects against whooping cough, which can be especially dangerous for infants.
Shingles vaccine: Adults age 50 and older should receive the shingles vaccine, even if they've had shingles before. Shingles can cause a painful rash and, in some cases, long-lasting nerve pain.

Pneumococcal vaccine: This vaccine helps protect against pneumonia and other serious infections caused by pneumococcal bacteria. It is recommended for adults age 50 and older, as well as younger adults with certain medical conditions.

COVID-19 vaccine: Current COVID-19 vaccination recommendations vary based on age and individual health factors. Your primary care provider can help determine which vaccine schedule is right for you.

Some Adults May Need Additional Vaccines

Depending on your age, medical history, lifestyle, or travel plans, your provider may also recommend vaccines for hepatitis A or B, HPV, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), chickenpox, RSV, meningococcal disease, or other illnesses. Your primary care provider can review your vaccination history and determine if you're missing any recommended immunizations.

Make Vaccines Part of Your Annual Checkup

One of the easiest ways to stay protected is to make vaccines part of your yearly wellness visit. During your appointment, your primary care provider can review your health history, discuss any changes in vaccine recommendations, and answer questions you may have.

"Preventive care isn't just about treating illness, it's about helping you stay healthy," says Dr. Bhat. "Your annual visit is a great time to make sure you're up to date on screenings, wellness exams, and the vaccines that can help keep you healthy for years to come."

If it's been a while since your last checkup, now is a great time to reconnect with your primary care provider. A simple conversation can help ensure you're protected against preventable diseases and living your healthiest life. Find the primary care provider that’s right for you and your family at mythc.net/acceptingnew.