August Is National Immunization Awareness Month. As we get older, changes in the immune system can increase the risk of serious illness and complications from infections. Staying up to date on recommended vaccines is one practical way to help protect your health, preserve independence, and reduce the chance of hospitalization.
Vaccination needs vary based on age, health conditions, prior vaccines, medications, travel, and living situation. A clinician or pharmacist can review your record and help you decide what is right for you.
Key Vaccines for Older Adults
Influenza (Flu)
Flu is a contagious respiratory illness that can lead to serious complications, especially for adults age 65 and older and for people with chronic conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, or diabetes. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommend a flu vaccine every year for everyone age 6 months and older.
Shingles
Shingles is a painful rash caused by reactivation of the virus that causes chickenpox. The pain can sometimes continue for months or longer after the rash has healed. A person with shingles can spread the virus to someone without immunity to chickenpox through contact with blister fluid; that person could develop chickenpox, not shingles.
CDC recommends two doses of the shingles vaccine, Shingrix, for adults age 50 and older. The doses are usually given two to six months apart. The vaccine is recommended even if you have had shingles before or received the older Zostavax vaccine.
Pneumococcal Disease
Pneumococcal disease is caused by bacteria that can lead to pneumonia, bloodstream infections, and meningitis. CDC recommends pneumococcal vaccination for all adults age 50 and older, as well as younger adults with certain health conditions or risk factors.
The appropriate pneumococcal vaccine and timing depend on your vaccination history. Ask your health care provider or pharmacist to review your record.
COVID-19
COVID-19 can be particularly serious for older adults and people with underlying medical conditions. Current CDC guidance lists at least two doses of the current COVID-19 vaccine for adults age 65 and older; the timing should be discussed with a health care provider or pharmacist based on prior doses and individual health needs.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
RSV can cause serious lower-respiratory illness in older adults. CDC recommends one RSV vaccine dose for all adults age 75 and older and for adults ages 50 through 74 who are at increased risk of severe RSV illness, including people with certain chronic heart or lung conditions, weakened immune systems, or those living in nursing homes.
At this time, RSV vaccination is not an annual vaccine. Eligible adults should discuss the best timing with their clinician; it is often given before the fall and winter respiratory-virus season.
Other Vaccines to Review. Older adults should also make sure they are up to date on:
Tdap or Td: Adults should receive one dose of Tdap if they have not had it previously, followed by a Td or Tdap booster every 10 years. Tdap helps protect against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough).
Hepatitis B: Adults age 60 and older with risk factors should receive hepatitis B vaccination. Adults age 60 and older without known risk factors may also receive it and should be vaccinated if they request it.
Other vaccines: Depending on health history, travel, work, living arrangements, and prior immunizations, a clinician may recommend vaccines for hepatitis A, measles, mumps, rubella, or other illnesses.
Talk with your primary care provider or pharmacist about your personal vaccination record, allergies, current medications, and health conditions. Keeping a current list of the vaccines you have received can make these conversations easier and help ensure you receive the protection recommended for you. Medicare Parts B and D generally cover the usual recommended vaccines. It’s a good idea to confirm coverage and network participation with your plan and/or pharmacy before receiving any vaccine.