Adult Vaccines
Which Vaccines You Need to Protect Your Health
Vaccines work with your immune system to help protect you from infections and disease. As you age, you’re more at risk of certain health conditions because your immune system isn’t as strong as it used to be. And if you do get sick, the symptoms can be more serious.
Three types of vaccines are especially important for older adults, including:
Influenza Vaccine—The flu vaccine is recommended for all ages every year, and there are special vaccines for adults over age 65. You need the vaccine every year because the flu virus changes over time.
Zoster or Herpes Zoster Vaccine—The CDC recommends a shingles vaccine called Shingrix for all adults age 50 and older—even if you've already had shingles or received the older vaccine. You'll need two doses, two to six months apart.
Pneumococcal Vaccines—These vaccines can prevent serious infections like pneumonia and meningitis.
- Pneumococcal polysaccharide or PPSV23: You need at least one dose of this vaccine after you turn 65 years old.
- Pneumococcal conjugate or PCV13: Adults age 65 and older may need one dose of this vaccine one year before receiving the PPSV23 vaccine. Talk to your doctor about whether you should get the PCV13 vaccine.
Talk to Your Doctor
Your doctor is your best source for information about vaccines. Which vaccines you need and when depend on your age, whether you smoke, where you travel and any health conditions you have (including pregnancy). Talk to your doctor to find the vaccine schedule that's right for you.
