How to Keep Your Adult Immunizations Current

Member

By Kristie Raburn
User-Submitted Article

Article Rating:

(3 Ratings)

Keep Your Adult Immunizations Current

Did you realize your need for an immunization does not end just because you are an adult? The specific shots or vaccinations you need as an adult are determined by factors such as your age, gender, your lifestyle, where you have been and where you are traveling to, your overall health, and your history of any previous immunizations. Each year the United States Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and the American Academy of Family Physicians recommend a specific adult immunization schedule. If you are not up to date on your shots, speak to your doctor about any vaccinations they may recommend for your specific needs and health concerns.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

An appointment with your doctor.

Step 1

Hepatitis B: 3 doses are recommended if you have not been previously vaccinated.
Step 2

Human papilloma virus (HPV) 3 doses are recommended for women up to age 26, if they have not been previously vaccinated.
Step 3

Influenza (flu shot) Annual flu shots are recommended, especially of those who’s immunity may be in jeopardy. You should a flu shot annually beginning at age 50.
Step 4

Pneumonia: 1 shot is recommended at age 65, especially if you have a history lung related illness or a history of smoking.
Step 5

Tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis: Adults should have a tetanus shot every 10 years. A combination shot of tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (DTaP) is the most common way tetanus is delivered to children in the United States.
Step 6

Shingles (Zostavax): Adults age 50 and older need one dose, whether or not they've had shingles before. If you had chicken pox as a child, you have a 70% chance of having Shingles before age 85; of adults over age 85, as many as half of them have been diagnosed with shingles at some point in their life.
Step 7

Due to the large population of immigrants into America, many diseases that were irritated from the US are now returning. Ask your physician about adult shots for any of the following diseases: chickenpox, smallpox, influenza, hepatitis A, pneumonia, measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), pneumococcal, and meningitis. These vaccinations may be needed depending on any earlier immunizations and any special health needs you may have.