Do You Know Which Immunizations You Need?

Nicole Pender, Washington State Department of Health

Many people don’t realize that there are several immunizations recommended for older adults. Vaccines are available now that were not available when you were younger. You can help keep yourself, your family, and your friends healthy by making sure you get all your recommended immunizations.

Next time you visit your healthcare provider, be sure to ask which immunizations you need.

Do you know which immunizations are recommended for you? 

• Flu Vaccine: For all people 50 and older.
  
  
• Pneumococcal Vaccine: For people 65 and older and some younger adults with chronic illnesses or weakened immune systems. Some people need two doses of this vaccine.  
  
  
• Shingles Vaccine: For all people aged 60 and older. You should get vaccinated even if you have had shingles or chickenpox. (See the next article, "CDC Recommends Shingles Vaccine for Seniors," to learn more.)
  
  
• Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap) Vaccine: This is a booster shot that helps to protect against pertussis (whooping cough), tetanus, and diphtheria. If you are under 65, you should get Tdap when you are due for your next tetanus booster shot. Tdap replaces one of your regular tetanus boosters. It is very important for you to get the Tdap shot if you are around infants and young children—your Tdap vaccination also helps protect them from whooping cough. If you are 65 or older, you should continue getting a tetanus booster shot every 10 years.
  
  

Is this information confusing?  If so, the next time you have an appointment with your doctor, ask which immunizations you need.  You can also complete the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Adult Vaccine Quiz to find out which immunizations you may need, and then take the results to your next doctor appointment. 

Resources

Find out more about adult immunizations at the Washington State Department of Health Immunization Program website. There you can also order free educational materials to learn more about immunizations and the diseases they can prevent.