As individuals age, so does their immunity against certain harmful diseases. Over time, protective antibodies from childhood vaccinations fade, making it crucial that adults between the ages of 19 and 50 safeguard their health by consulting care providers and staying up-to-date with recommended vaccination schedules. In addition to improving individual health outcomes, preventive adult immunizations can lower hospitalization rates and protect our health systems from additional strain.
Recommended Vaccinations for Adults
Although guidelines will vary based on an individual’s age and health circumstances, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends numerous vaccines for adult patients.
COVID-19: The CDC recommends one dose of an updated COVID-19 vaccine for all eligible adults to significantly lower the risk of severe illness and related complications. This year, those who received the updated 2023–2024 vaccine were 54% less likely to contract the virus during the peak virus season between mid-September to January, making vaccination a significant and effective form of defense for all individuals.
Influenza (Flu): The flu is a respiratory illness that affects the nose, throat, and lungs. Because the virus mutates between seasons, it is essential that adults receive the annually updated vaccine. During flu seasons, in which the vaccine antigen bears a high resemblance to the circulating strain, immunization can prevent the likelihood of severe flu symptoms by up to 60%.
Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (Whooping Cough): The Tdap vaccine is a trivalent vaccine that protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis, also known as whooping cough. Adults who received an initial Tdap shot during childhood are recommended to receive a booster dose of Tdap every 10 years.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV): The CDC recommends RSV immunizations for select patients. In most adults, RSV produces mild cold-like symptoms that dissipate within a week or two. However, since RSV can cause serious harm among infants, the CDC recommends that pregnant patients receive the vaccine between 32 and 36 weeks’ gestation.
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR): Though measles, mumps, and rubella are serious diseases, the MMR vaccine is highly effective at protecting from infection and preventing the complications caused by these illnesses. The CDC recommends one dose of the MMR vaccine for patients without presumptive evidence of immunity, and two doses for adults such as healthcare workers, international travelers, and postsecondary students who face a high risk of exposure to measles or mumps.
Varicella (Chickenpox): Varicella, also known as chickenpox, is a highly contagious disease that causes a blister-like rash; most patients gain lifetime immunity after one infection. The CDC recommends all individuals born in 1980 or later receive a two-dose varicella vaccine. In adults without prior vaccination or evidence of immunity, the first and second doses should be administered four to eight weeks apart.
Hepatitis B Virus (HBV): Hepatitis B is a serious disease that can cause lifelong infection and liver complications. To protect previously unvaccinated adults against HBV, the CDC recommends a two-, three-, or four-dose vaccination series depending on the specific type of vaccine and/or the patient’s condition.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV): HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection. While most cases are asymptomatic, certain strains of the virus can cause genital warts and various types of cancer. If adequate immunization is not received during adolescence, the CDC recommends HPV vaccination for adults up to 26 years of age, following a three-dose schedule of zero, one to two, and six months. Patients between 27 and 45 can consult their clinician to determine whether HPV vaccination is right for them.
Keeping Patients Safe by Planning Ahead
Although adults live busy and varied lives, it’s important that physicians and care providers issue clear and timely recommendations about the appropriate vaccines and vaccination schedules for their patients. Especially in advance of the upcoming fall season, it is imperative that providers use the summer months to begin proactive vaccine conversations and schedule any necessary immunizations.