Vaccination is not just for children. Vaccines are safe and protect you and those around you from vaccine-preventable diseases. As we get older, the protection we had from previous vaccination can decrease for some diseases. Getting another dose (called a booster) can increase our immunity to provide the best protection. Some adults may have missed one or more of their vaccines when they were a child. They may need to catch up and get these vaccines now.
There are also diseases that are more common in adults, even healthy adults. This is why additional vaccines are needed as we get older.
By keeping up to date with vaccines, adults can prevent the spread of disease to those who may be more likely to contract them. These include:
This is known as community immunity or herd immunity. Many Canadian adults are not up to date with their vaccines. Talk to your healthcare provider to see what you need to do to be fully protected.
Unless contraindicated, it is recommended that adults get vaccinated for common diseases at certain stages of life.
Adults may also want to consider being vaccinated for the following diseases if medically appropriate.
* multiple doses may be required
Not everyone is the same. You may need more or fewer vaccines depending on your medical history and risks. Talk to your healthcare provider about the right vaccines for you.
As we get older, our immune system can get weaker. This puts us at a greater risk for certain diseases, including influenza. The flu is more likely to cause severe illness and even death in older adults. Other vaccine-preventable diseases such as herpes zoster (shingles) and pneumococcal disease are more common with age.
Government of Canada – Vaccinations for Adults