Immunization Recommendations for Adults

19-64 Years Old

Immunizations are not just for kids but for people of all ages. Vaccines protect you and others around you from various diseases. It is as important for you to stay up to date on immunizations as an adult, as it was when you were a child. Adults can still get sick from diseases that could be prevented by vaccines. As an adult, you may need additional vaccines depending on your health, age, job, lifestyle, or travel plans. In addition, immunity provided by some childhood vaccines may decrease over time, so booster shots may be needed to boost your immunity and keep you protected. Talk with your healthcare provider about what vaccines they recommend for you.

Vaccines Recommended for Adults

COVID-19 Vaccine—Visit our COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility webpage for updates on which COVID-19 vaccines you are eligible for. Contact your healthcare provider for any additional questions you may have.

Influenza (Flu) Vaccine—A flu vaccine is recommended for people of all ages every year. Find a flu vaccine location near you.
Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Vaccine (Tdap)— Every adult should get the Tdap vaccine if they did not receive it. Tdap Vaccine Handout
- A Td (tetanus, diphtheria) or Tdap booster vaccine is recommended every 10 years.
- Women who are pregnant should get a Tdap vaccine with every pregnancy (Preferably during weeks 27 through 36).
- A booster vaccine is especially important for anyone who spends time with children who are under 12 months of age.

Additional Vaccines for Adults Ages 19-26

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine—A three dose vaccine series for men and women through age 26 who did not previously receive the vaccine or finish the series. HPV Vaccine Handout
Meningococcal ACWY (Meningitis) Vaccine—Highly recommended for young adults living in communal housing, such as college students and military recruits. Meningococcal ACWY Vaccine Handout

Additional Vaccines for Adults Ages 27-49

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine—Adults 27-45 years old who did not previously receive the vaccine or finish the series should talk to their health care provider about whether an HPV vaccine is recommended. HPV Vaccine Handout

Additional Vaccines for Adults Ages 50-64

Shingrix (Shingles) Vaccine—For adults ages 50 years and older to help protect against shingles and the complications from the disease.

Other Vaccines You May Need

Make sure you are up to date on your vaccines. Learn about vaccines you may have missed or are recommended for you based on your age, job, lifestyle, travel plans, or health conditions. Talk to your healthcare provider about which vaccines they recommend for you.

Hepatitis A Vaccine—May be recommended for people who are traveling to certain countries. Hep A Vaccine Handout
Hepatitis B Vaccine—Recommended for people at risk for infection through sexual exposure, exposure to blood, travel to certain countries, health conditions, or other circumstances that may expose them to hepatitis B. Hep B Vaccine Handout
Measles Mumps and Rubella (MMR) Vaccine—Recommended for adults who did not received the vaccine as a child or do not have proof of immunity. Additional doses of MMR vaccine are recommended for adults who are at a high risk of getting exposed, including people who work in healthcare, international travelers, or students in educational settings. MMR Vaccine Handout
Pneumococcal (Pneumonia) Vaccine (PCV13 or PPSV23)—Recommended for adults with chronic health conditions that effect the heart, liver, lungs, or kidneys. It is also recommended for adults who smoke cigarettes as well as adults with an immunocompromised condition, asplenia, cerebrospinal leak or cochlear implant. Pneumococcal Vaccine Handout
Varicella (Chickenpox) Vaccine—Recommended for adults who have never had chickenpox or have not received the chickenpox vaccine. Chickenpox Vaccine Handout
The chickenpox vaccine is especially important for certain people including:
- People who work in healthcare
- Teachers and others who spend time around children
- Military personnel
- People who live or work in communal settings (such as student housing, correctional institutions, or nursing homes)
- International travelers