Patient Guide
Key Information for Your Stay
Adult Vaccines
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.
Four types of vaccines are especially important for older adults, including:
COVID-19 Vaccine—The COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. Getting the vaccine will make you much less likely to catch COVID-19, or to get seriously sick if you do catch it. If you get a vaccine that requires two doses, make sure you get the second dose on time—and be sure to get any recommended booster doses.
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 Vaccine—The pneumococcal polysaccharide (PPSV23) vaccine can prevent serious infections like pneumonia and meningitis. You need one dose of this vaccine after you turn 65 years old.
Feeling Unsure?
It’s okay to have questions about new vaccines. But make sure you rely on sources that tell you the truth—like a doctor you trust, or reliable websites like the CDC (cdc.gov) or the World Health Organization (who.int). Social media is often not a reliable source for vaccine information.
