Adult vaccinations: a guide to staying healthy

Vaccinations are a cornerstone of adult health, offering protection against multiple diseases that can affect quality of life and longevity. As we age, the immunity we gained from childhood vaccinations diminishes and leaves us vulnerable to infections. Moreover, lifestyle changes, travel, and age-related health changes can be easier if you’re vaccinated. 

This guide is a helpful resource for understanding the essential vaccines for adults. It includes information on when and where to get vaccinated so you can protect yourself and your loved ones from preventable diseases.

Need to make sure you’re up to date on your vaccines? Schedule an appointment with a primary care provider or nurse practitioner who is accepting new patients. 

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What is an adult vaccination?

Adult vaccinations help strengthen your immune system against preventable diseases that you may have been vaccinated against as children. Vaccines can also protect you against diseases that are more common or dangerous in adulthood.

Why are adult vaccinations important?

They help provide lifelong protection.  

Getting a booster shot for diseases such as tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough) can help you maintain immunity as your childhood vaccines wear off over time. Certain immunizations—like the shingles vaccine—are specifically recommended for adults because illnesses can become more common and severe as you get older.  

They protect vulnerable populations.

Immunizations are critical for maintaining public health. By getting vaccinated, you can also keep infants, older adults, immunocompromised people, and other vulnerable members of your community safe.

They can make travel and other activities safer. 

Adults may need specific vaccines based on travel plans, occupational hazards, lifestyle factors, or certain health and medical conditions that put them at increased risk for certain infections. 

Where can I get vaccinated?

Here’s how and where to get adult vaccinations:

Primary care providers

Your primary care doctor is the best place to start. They have your medical history and can recommend vaccines based on your age, medical history, and risk factors. They can administer most vaccines during a regular appointment. If you are a BJC HealthCare patient, you can access all your immunization records through the MyChart portal.

Convenient Care clinics

BJC Medical Group Convenient Care clinics provide flu vaccinations every day through online and walk-in appointments.  

Pharmacies

Retail pharmacies can provide a variety of vaccines, but they may not have a complete immunization inventory. Be sure to check with your primary care provider first as they will have access to your comprehensive medical history, including family health history and allergies. These are essential in determining which vaccines are safe and appropriate for you.

Public health clinics

Local health departments and public health clinics often provide vaccinations, sometimes at reduced costs for those without insurance. These clinics help make vaccinations accessible to everyone.

Travel medicine clinics 

Because some diseases prevented by routine vaccinations are not common in the United States, you may need to go to a travel medicine specialist instead of your primary care provider. If you’re going overseas, travel medicine clinics can provide the yellow fever, typhoid, or hepatitis A vaccines. The CDC provides vaccine recommendations for specific destinations around the world. 

Workplace and college health centers

Some employers and educational institutions offer vaccination programs to prevent flu and other diseases. These settings can be options for receiving vaccinations without having to make a separate appointment elsewhere.

Community health events

Health fairs and community events provide great opportunities for individuals to get vaccinated.

Which vaccines are recommended for adults?

Your primary care provider can help determine which vaccines are right for you based on your health history, vaccination history, and individual risk factors. The following vaccines are recommended for adults:

Influenza (flu)

One flu vaccine every year.  

COVID-19  

One booster shot every year. Talk to your primary care doctor because recommendations may vary based on age, immunity status, and vaccination history.  

Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap)

One booster shot every 10 years or five years after a severe burn or wound.

Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR)

Adults born in 1957 or later who haven’t gotten an MMR vaccine may need the vaccination based on medical history and risk factors.

Human papillomavirus (HPV)

A series of three shots over a 6-month period are recommended for ages 26–45 who weren’t vaccinated as a young person.

Shingles (zoster)

Single- and double-dosed vaccines are recommended for adults age 50 and over.  

Pneumonia

Recommended for adults age 65 and older or for younger adults who have diabetes, heart disease, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other diseases that pose an increased risk of pneumonia. Vaccination recommendations depend on age, health status, and vaccination history.

Hepatitis A and B

A series of three or four shots is recommended for adults at risk of infection, including international travelers, health care workers, and people with diabetes or kidney disease. A doctor can help determine if future boosters are necessary.

Chickenpox (varicella)

A two-dose vaccine is recommended if you’ve never had chickenpox, haven’t gotten vaccinated against it, or believe you’ve been exposed to it. Health care workers and others who are potentially exposed to chicken pox long after their initial vaccination may benefit from a booster dose.

Meningococcal

Recommended for people who are at a higher risk of developing the disease, such as college dorm residents and those traveling to areas with a high volume of meningitis cases. Dosage schedule depends on the vaccine type selected and individual risk factors. Immunity can last several years, but you may need a booster for continued protection.

RSV (respiratory syncytial virus)

Recommended for adults aged 60 and older or those with chronic lung or heart diseases. While RSV is not currently on the recommended vaccine schedule, it can offer long-term protection for individuals who are vulnerable to RSV infection and resulting complications.

For additional information, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides an adult immunization schedule for adults aged 19 and older. 

How do I stay up to date on my vaccine schedule?

Make an appointment with a primary care provider.

A primary care provider can ensure you get the right vaccines based on your age, health, and lifestyle. Don’t have one? Find a primary care doctor or nurse practitioner near you who is taking new patients and schedule an appointment online.

Check your vaccination status

Review your medical records or contact your health care provider to determine which vaccines you need.

Verify your insurance coverage

Verify your insurance coverage for vaccinations. Most insurance plans cover recommended vaccines without a copay as part of preventive care.

Keep a vaccine record

Keeping an immunization record will save you time and unnecessary hassle. If possible, bring your vaccination record to your appointment. This helps health care providers recommend the correct vaccines and update your records accurately. If you are a BJC HealthCare patient, you can access all your immunizations through the MyChart portal.  

Staying up to date with vaccinations is a critical part of preventive health care for adults. Regular vaccination is an effective strategy for maintaining health, preventing serious diseases, and ensuring a vibrant and active life.

About primary care 

A BJC primary care provider serves as your health partner, providing preventive health care and treatment for illnesses, injuries, and chronic conditions. If you do not have one find a primary care provider accepting new patients.