Adults need shots (vaccinations) just like kids do. Next time you get a checkup, talk with the doctor or nurse about getting these important shots.
- Get a flu shot every year. The seasonal flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and others from the flu.
- Get a Td booster shot every 10 years to protect against tetanus (“TET-nes”) and diphtheria (“dif-THEER-ee-ah”).
- If you are under age 65 and haven’t received it yet, get the Tdap shot instead of your next Td booster. Tdap protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough (pertussis).
- If you are age 60 or older, you may need a shot to prevent shingles. Shingles causes a rash and can lead to pain that lasts for months or years.
- If you are age 65 or older, get a pneumonia shot. This shot is sometimes called PPSV. Most people only need to get the shot once.
Why do I need to get these shots?
There are 2 main reasons to get your shots.
- The shots you got as a child can weaken or wear off over time. That’s why it’s important to get “booster” shots as an adult.
- As you get older, your body needs more protection from illnesses like pneumonia (“noo-MOHN-yah”) and shingles.
All of the recommended adult shots help prevent serious diseases. For example, getting a tetanus shot will protect you from tetanus, an infection that can sometimes lead to death. You can get tetanus if you get a deep cut from a piece of metal, like a nail.
Protect yourself by staying up-to-date on your shots.
Do I need any other shots to help me stay healthy?
You may need other shots if you:
- Didn’t get all of your shots as a child
- Have a health condition like HIV that makes it harder for your body to fight infection
- Have a health condition like diabetes or heart, lung, or liver disease
- Are pregnant
- Are a man who has sex with men
- Smoke
- Spend time with infants, young children, or older adults
- Work in a school, hospital, prison, or health clinic
- Travel outside the United States
Ask your doctor or nurse if you need any other shots at your next checkup.
