Vaccination is not only important during childhood. Adults also need vaccines to stay protected against certain infections and to maintain immunity as they grow older. Adult vaccination 18 years onwards is an important part of preventive healthcare and may vary according to age, previous vaccination history, occupation, travel, lifestyle and underlying health conditions.
Some vaccines received during childhood may require booster doses later in life, while certain vaccines are recommended specifically for adults. People who did not receive particular vaccines during childhood may also benefit from catch-up vaccination after reaching adulthood.
A doctor can review your vaccination history and health profile to determine which vaccines may be appropriate for you.
Adult vaccination refers to vaccines recommended or considered for individuals aged 18 years and above to help prevent vaccine-preventable diseases.
Vaccination works by helping the immune system recognize specific infections and develop protection against them. Depending on the vaccine, protection may require one dose, multiple doses or periodic booster doses.
The appropriate vaccination schedule is not the same for every adult. It can depend on:
Age and previous vaccination history
Medical conditions
Pregnancy or plans for pregnancy
Occupation and workplace exposure
Travel plans
Lifestyle and living conditions
Previous infections or immunity
Exposure to specific health risks
Therefore, adults should discuss their vaccination requirements with a qualified healthcare professional rather than following a one-size-fits-all schedule.
As people age, immunity to some infections can decrease. Adults may also develop new health or occupational risk factors that were not present during childhood.
Adult vaccination can help:
Reduce the risk of certain vaccine-preventable infections
Maintain protection from previously received vaccines
Provide catch-up protection when childhood vaccines were missed
Reduce the possibility of complications from certain infections
Protect vulnerable family members and close contacts
Support preventive healthcare throughout adulthood
Vaccination can be particularly important for older adults and people with certain chronic medical conditions, depending on their individual health status.
The vaccines suitable for an adult depend on individual circumstances. Depending on age, vaccination history and risk factors, a doctor may discuss vaccines such as:
Seasonal influenza vaccination may be recommended annually for many adults, particularly those at increased risk of complications.
Adults may require protection against tetanus and diphtheria through appropriate vaccination and booster doses. A doctor can determine when a booster is due based on previous vaccination.
The Tdap vaccine provides protection against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (whooping cough). It may be recommended in specific circumstances, including during pregnancy, according to medical guidance.
Hepatitis B vaccination may be advised for adults who are susceptible to hepatitis B, particularly those with specific medical, occupational or lifestyle-related risk factors.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination can help prevent infections associated with certain cancers and other conditions. Adults who were not vaccinated earlier may still be candidates depending on their age and individual circumstances.
Pneumococcal vaccines may be recommended for certain older adults or people with particular medical conditions that increase their risk of pneumococcal disease.
Vaccination against shingles may be considered for eligible adults, particularly in older age groups or those meeting specific medical recommendations.
Depending on personal circumstances, adults may also require vaccines related to travel, occupational exposure, specific health conditions or outbreak-related risks.
Adult vaccination may be particularly relevant for:
Adults who have incomplete vaccination records
People who missed vaccines during childhood
Older adults
Healthcare and other high-exposure workers
Individuals with certain chronic conditions
People planning international travel
Adults with specific occupational risks
Women planning pregnancy, where appropriate
People who may be at increased risk of particular infections
A vaccination consultation can help identify gaps in your immunization history and determine appropriate next steps.
During an adult vaccination consultation, the doctor generally reviews your medical and vaccination history. You may be asked about previous vaccine doses, allergies, current medications, medical conditions, pregnancy status where relevant, occupation and upcoming travel.
Based on this assessment, the doctor may recommend:
Review of vaccination history
Identification of missing or due vaccines
Assessment of medical and lifestyle-related risks
Selection of appropriate vaccines
Planning of required doses or boosters
Follow-up for subsequent doses when necessary
Keeping a personal record of received vaccines can make future vaccination planning easier.
Following an appropriate adult vaccination plan can offer several preventive health benefits:
Helps maintain immunity during adulthood
Supports protection against preventable infections
Helps adults catch up on missed vaccinations
May reduce the risk of serious disease in eligible individuals
Provides targeted protection based on individual risk
Supports preventive healthcare at different stages of life
Vaccination is one component of a broader approach to maintaining good health, alongside regular medical check-ups, a balanced diet, physical activity and appropriate screening.
Vaccines used in routine healthcare undergo safety and quality evaluation. Most people experience only mild and temporary reactions after vaccination, such as soreness at the injection site, mild fever or fatigue.
However, vaccine suitability can vary from person to person. Individuals with a history of severe allergic reactions to a vaccine or its components, certain medical conditions, or other specific circumstances should inform their doctor before vaccination.
Your healthcare professional can explain the expected benefits, possible side effects and precautions associated with each recommended vaccine.
Vaccination needs can change throughout adulthood.
18–26 years: Catch-up vaccination and vaccines such as HPV may be discussed depending on vaccination history and eligibility.
27–49 years: Adults may need routine boosters or vaccines based on medical, occupational, lifestyle and travel-related risks.
50–64 years: Additional vaccination considerations may arise with increasing age or certain medical conditions.
65 years and above: Older adults may have specific vaccination recommendations because the risk of complications from certain infections can increase with age.
These age categories are general guidelines. The appropriate vaccination plan should always be individualized.
Adult vaccination should be planned according to your health profile rather than based solely on age. Professional vaccination care can help you understand which vaccines may be appropriate, whether booster doses are due and how your medical history affects vaccine recommendations.
A healthcare professional can also help maintain an organized vaccination schedule and advise you about precautions before and after vaccination.
Adult vaccination 18 years onwards is an important part of preventive healthcare. Vaccination requirements can change with age, health conditions, occupation, travel plans and previous immunization history. Even if you completed your childhood vaccinations, you may still require certain adult vaccines or booster doses.
If you are 18 or older and are unsure whether your vaccinations are up to date, consult a qualified healthcare professional for an individualized vaccination review and appropriate schedule.
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