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August is National Immunization Awareness Month, an annual observance intended to highlight the importance of keeping vaccinations up to date. Some diseases that can be prevented by vaccines may lead to serious illness or death. Being knowledgeable about recommended vaccines empowers you to make informed decisions about your health.

Aug. 1, 2025

By Dr. Derick Young
WellMed Immunization Council Co-Chair and Flu Program Physician Lead
WellMed at Mid County - Nederland, Texas

Why is it important for adults to get vaccinated?

Vaccines help prevent getting infected and spreading serious diseases that could result in poor health, death, missed work, medical bills and not being able to care for family. According to the CDC, one of the reasons adults need to keep their vaccinations up to date is because it is possible for immunity from childhood vaccines can wear off over time.

Also, as we age, we may be at increased risk for certain vaccine-preventable diseases. Vaccination is one of the safest and most convenient preventive care measures available.

What vaccines might be needed? A list of recommended vaccinations is provided below, but it is important to consult with your doctor. Together, you can determine the most appropriate actions based on your situation.

What vaccinations are recommended for adults? (updated by the CDC 7/1/25)

It is recommended that all adults stay up to date on the following vaccines:

  • COVID-19 vaccine (yearly)
  • Influenza (flu) vaccine (yearly) The CDC recommends annual flu vaccinations for everyone age 6 months and older. The flu can cause serious health problems in older adults. Adults 50 and older and pregnant people should get the flu vaccine as a shot, not as a nasal spray.
  • Tetanus (Td or Tdap) vaccine (at least every 10 years) One dose of Tdap is routinely given at age 11 or 12. If you’ve never had a Tdap vaccine, the CDC recommends getting it as soon as possible. Tdap can protect you from lockjaw, which also is called tetanus; whooping cough, which also is called pertussis; and diphtheria, which can lead to breathing problems. A Tdap booster shot is recommended every 10 years.
  • Shingles vaccine (all adults aged 50 and older) To prevent shingles, the CDC recommends the vaccine Shingrix for healthy adults ages 50 and older. It’s given in two doses. While not life-threatening, shingles can be very painful.
  • Pneumococcal vaccine (all adults aged 50 and older) The CDC recommends the pneumococcal vaccines — there are two — for adults ages 65 and older. Younger adults at increased risk of pneumococcal disease also might need a dose of the vaccine. Pneumococcal disease causes infections, such as pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections.
  • Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine (all adults ages 75 and older) The CDC recommends the RSV vaccine for adults 60 and older who are at a higher risk of serious health problems, such as pneumonia, if they get RSV.
  • Hepatitis B.The CDC recommends all adults ages 19 to 59 receive the hepatitis B vaccine. The vaccine also is recommended for adults 60 and older who have risk factors for hepatitis B.

This vaccine is not specifically recommended for people 60 and older who don’t have known risk factors. But if you are in that group, you may receive the hepatitis B vaccine if you want it. Hepatitis B is a disease that affects the liver.

Depending on other factors such as medical conditions, health conditions, job, lifestyle or travel habits, you may need additional vaccines to protect yourself.

Talk to your primary care physician about vaccines; don’t wait until you’re sick.

Vaccines are the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from vaccine-preventable disease. By getting vaccinated, you protect yourself and avoid spreading preventable diseases to your loved ones and other people in your community.

The significance of prioritizing and scheduling a wellness visit with a primary care physician (PCP) is frequently underestimated. Establishing care with a PCP and receiving routine preventive services, separate from appointments for illness, injury, or ongoing medical conditions, can promote overall well-being and facilitate the early detection of potential health issues.

Derick Young, MD, is a Texas native who practices primary care medicine. He attended medical school and his family medicine residency at the University of Texas Medical School at San Antonio. He is board-certified by the American Board of Family Medicine. For Dr. Young, medicine is his true calling, as he's able to provide high-quality health care in a respectful manner. Dr. Young pursued family medicine because it allowed him the broadest scope of practice. His favorite part about family medicine is building relationships with his patients and colleagues.

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