As people get older, they may be at a higher risk of certain illnesses and infections, so it’s important to stay up to date with recommended vaccinations. Some of the most important vaccines for older adults include:
Influenza (Flu) vaccine: Older adults are particularly susceptible to severe illness from the flu, so it’s recommended that they receive a flu vaccine every year.
Pneumonia vaccine: Older adults are at a higher risk of pneumococcal disease, which can lead to pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections. There are two types of pneumonia vaccines available for adults: pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) and pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23).
Shingles vaccine: Shingles is a painful skin rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. The risk of shingles increases as people get older, so the shingles vaccine is recommended for adults over 50.
Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) vaccine: This vaccine protects against three serious diseases and is especially important for older adults who are in close contact with young children, as they may be at risk of catching and spreading the diseases.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine: Although HPV is most commonly associated with younger adults, older adults can still benefit from the vaccine, especially if they have not been previously vaccinated.
It’s important to discuss your vaccine needs with your healthcare provider to determine the best plan for you. They can help you stay protected against serious illnesses and infections as you age