Many people associate vaccinations with childhood, but immunisation is not just for children. Throughout adulthood, your health needs change, your immunity can decrease over time, and certain vaccines may become recommended depending on your age, lifestyle, occupation, travel plans, or medical history.
Staying up to date with your vaccinations is an important part of preventative healthcare and can help protect both you and those around you from serious, yet preventable, illness.
Why might adults need vaccines?
Vaccines work by helping your immune system recognise and fight certain infections before they cause illness. While many childhood vaccines provide long-lasting protection, others require booster doses, and some vaccines are only recommended later in life or for people with specific risk factors.
Your GP can assess your individual circumstances and advise whether any vaccinations may be appropriate for you.
Which vaccines might be recommended?
There is no single vaccination schedule for every adult. Recommendations vary from person to person, but some commonly discussed vaccines include:
Influenza (flu) vaccine
The flu virus changes each year, which is why an annual influenza vaccine may be recommended.
It is particularly important for people who:
- Are 65 years or older
- Are pregnant
- Have chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, asthma, or heart disease
- Work in healthcare or care for vulnerable individuals
Receiving your flu vaccine before winter can help reduce your risk of severe illness and complications.
Tetanus booster
Protection against tetanus does not last forever. Many adults require a booster approximately every 10 years, or after certain injuries if their vaccination status is uncertain.
Tetanus is uncommon, but it can be a serious and potentially life-threatening infection, making it important to keep your protection up to date.
COVID-19 vaccination
Depending on your age, underlying health conditions, and current public health recommendations, your GP may advise you to receive a COVID-19 vaccine or booster dose. Older adults and people with weakened immune systems may benefit from additional protection.
Pneumococcal vaccine
Pneumococcal disease can lead to illnesses such as pneumonia, bloodstream infections, and meningitis. This vaccine may be recommended for older adults and for younger adults living with certain chronic medical conditions or weakened immune systems.
Shingles vaccine
As we age, the risk of developing shingles increases. Shingles can cause a painful rash and, in some cases, long-lasting nerve pain. Vaccination may be recommended for older adults to help reduce the risk.
Hepatitis vaccines
Some adults may benefit from hepatitis A or hepatitis B vaccination, particularly if they:
- Travel to certain countries
- Work in healthcare
- Have particular medical conditions
- Have not previously been vaccinated
Your GP can advise whether these vaccines are appropriate for your circumstances.
What if you cannot remember your vaccinations?
It is common for adults to be unsure which vaccines they received as children or when they last had a booster.
During a routine consultation, your GP can:
- Review your medical and vaccination history
- Assess your individual risk factors
- Recommend any catch-up vaccinations if needed
- Help you plan future booster doses
This ensures your care is based on your personal health needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Prevention is always better than treatment
Vaccinations are one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of serious infectious diseases. However, the vaccines you may need depend on factors unique to you, including your age, medical history, occupation, travel plans, and overall health.
If you are unsure whether your vaccinations are up to date or would like advice before travelling or entering a new stage of life, speak to your GP. A simple discussion can help you understand which vaccines, if any, may be recommended for you and support your long-term health.
