Childhood may have been filled with checkups and vaccine cards, but adult vaccinations are just as important. Over time, your immunity can wear off, and new health risks emerge as you age.
Whether you’re managing a chronic condition, preparing to travel, or simply wanting to avoid serious illness, recommended shots for adults are a vital part of staying healthy. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top booster shots for adults, how to stay on track, and when to talk with your pharmacist.
Vaccines Every Adult Should Know About
TDAP Booster
- What it’s for: Tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough.
- Who it’s recommended for: All adults, especially if you didn’t get a booster in the last 10 years.
- How often: Every 10 years, or after certain injuries.
Influenza (Flu Shot)
- What it’s for: Seasonal flu strains.
- Who it’s recommended for: Everyone age 6 months and older—especially seniors and those with health conditions.
- How often: Annually.
COVID-19 Vaccine
- What it’s for: Protection against COVID-19 and severe symptoms.
- Who it’s recommended for: All adults; some may need additional doses or updated formulas.
- How often: Varies by age and immune status. Stay current with CDC updates and get a COVID and flu test when unsure about symptoms.
Shingles (Zoster Vaccine)
- What it’s for: Painful rashes caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus.
- Who it’s recommended for: Adults 50+.
- How often: Two doses, two to six months apart.
Pneumococcal Vaccine
- What it’s for: Pneumonia and other serious infections.
- Who it’s recommended for: Adults 65+, and those with chronic illnesses (see senior medication management).
- How often: Based on your medical history—some may need one or more types.
HPV Vaccine
- What it’s for: Human papillomavirus-related cancers and conditions.
- Who it’s recommended for: Adults up to age 26; sometimes up to 45 after discussing with a provider.
- How often: Two or three doses, depending on age at first dose.
Hepatitis A & B Vaccines
- What it’s for: Liver infections caused by the hepatitis A or B viruses.
- Who it’s recommended for: Travelers, healthcare workers, and people with certain health conditions.
- How often: Two or three doses, depending on the vaccine type.
How to Stay on Track With Your Vaccines
Life gets busy, and it’s easy to forget when your next booster is due. That’s why creating a personal immunization chart for adults can help. Keep your vaccination records in one spot and check in yearly with your pharmacy or doctor.
Pair this with services like medication management or even elderly medication management to simplify your entire healthcare routine. And if you ever need to transfer prescriptions to a pharmacy that makes things easier, Stanley Pharmacy can help with that too.
Ask Your Pharmacist: Your Best Ally in Adult Immunizations
Pharmacists aren’t just here for quick refills. They can help you figure out which immunizations for adults you need, especially if you’ve missed a few over the years. They’ll also let you know if you’re eligible for adult vaccination based on age, health conditions, or travel plans.
You can walk in for many vaccines—no appointment needed. Ask about combining your flu shot with your COVID and flu test or bundling vaccines during one visit.
Stay Strong, Stay Protected with Stanley Pharmacy
You want to be someone who takes charge of their health, stays active, and avoids unnecessary hospital visits. That’s why Stanley Pharmacy is here with answers, empathy, and support. We’ve been helping people in the community stay protected since 2006 with adult vaccination you can count on. Call or visit Stanley Pharmacy today to update your vaccines and boosters.