Immunization Information: Seniors
You never outgrow the need for vaccines. The specific immunizations you need as an older adult are determined by factors such as your health status, previous immunizations, and international travel plans.
Check with your health care provider to find out what immunizations you need to prevent diseases such as:
- Seasonal influenza (flu) - Annual flu vaccine is recommended for all adults. Find out where to get a flu shot here.
- Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough) - One booster is recommended for those who have not previously received Tdap and who have close contact with an infant aged less than 12 months. Other adults ages 65 years and older may choose to receive Tdap to replace the next booster dose of tetanus and diphtheria toxoids vaccine (Td).
- Shingles (Zoster) - Vaccine is now approved for adults ages 50 - 59 years, and recommended for adults ages 60 and older.
- Pneumococcal disease - One pneumococcal vaccine dose is recommended for all adults 65 years of age or older
Other vaccinations that you may need include those that protect against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and chickenpox (varicella).
Review the Adult Immunization Schedule to see if you need any immunizations
Not sure which vaccines you need? Take this online quiz: www2.cdc.gov/nip/adultImmSched
Download this tool to help you determine the vaccines needed for adults 19 years of age and older: www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/Schedulers/adult-scheduler.html
Information about Individual Vaccines: Vaccine Information Statements (VIS) are information sheets produced by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). VISs explain both the benefits and risks of a vaccine. Prior to vaccine administration, a VIS must be provided for all vaccines identified by Federal law.The most up-to-date collection of VISs is available at: www.immunize.org/vis
Additional information about individual vaccines is available at: www.vaccineinformation.org
Planning International Travel? Find information about recommended travel vaccines here.
