Educational information, not medical advice. See our Medical Disclaimer. Last updated: October 11, 2026.
Many adults assume vaccination ends with childhood. In reality, immunity from some vaccines fades, new vaccines have been developed, and age, pregnancy, health conditions, work and travel can all change what you need. This guide explains the vaccines adults commonly need and, just as important, how to find out what applies to you, because schedules differ between countries and are updated over time.
Why adults need vaccines
- Protection fades. Tetanus and diphtheria immunity wanes over time and needs boosters.
- Some viruses change. Influenza strains shift, so the flu vaccine is updated every year.
- Risk rises with age or illness. Older adults and people with conditions such as diabetes, heart or lung disease are at higher risk of complications from infections such as flu, pneumonia and shingles.
- You protect others. Vaccinated adults are less likely to pass infections to babies, older relatives and people with weakened immunity.
Vaccines adults commonly need
The list below summarizes what is typical in national schedules such as the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) adult immunization schedule. Your own country’s schedule may differ in ages, eligibility and products.
| Vaccine | In brief |
|---|---|
| Influenza (flu) | One dose every year for adults; some formulations are preferred for people aged 65 and older. See our flu guide. |
| Tetanus, diphtheria, whooping cough (Td/Tdap) | A Td or Tdap booster about every 10 years. One Tdap dose is recommended in each pregnancy. |
| Shingles (recombinant) | Two doses, recommended in the US from age 50 (and earlier for some immunocompromised adults). Ages differ elsewhere. |
| Pneumococcal | Recommended for older adults and for younger adults with certain conditions; the exact product and age depend on your country. |
| COVID-19 | Recommendations change as variants and vaccines are updated; check your national guidance, especially if you are older or at higher risk. |
| RSV | Offered in some countries to older adults and certain higher-risk groups, and to pregnant people in some programs. |
| MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) | Adults without evidence of immunity may need one or two doses. |
| Hepatitis B | Recommended for many adults who were not vaccinated earlier, and for those at higher risk. |
| HPV | Routinely for young adults not vaccinated earlier, with decisions for older adults made with a clinician. |
This table is a general overview, not a personal recommendation. Where the exact ages or doses vary by country, we have said so rather than guess.
Pregnancy, health conditions and travel
- Pregnancy. Certain vaccines, such as Tdap and flu, are recommended during pregnancy to protect both the pregnant person and the baby. Some live vaccines are avoided. Ask your midwife or doctor.
- Chronic conditions. Diabetes, heart, lung, kidney or liver disease, and weakened immunity can change which vaccines you need and when.
- Work. Health and care workers, and others with higher exposure, may need additional vaccines.
- Travel. Some destinations call for vaccines such as hepatitis A, typhoid or yellow fever. Plan well ahead, ideally four to eight weeks before departure, since some need multiple doses.
How to check what you need
- Find your records. Look for childhood vaccination cards, a national immunization registry or an app, your doctor’s records or workplace health records.
- Look up your national schedule. For the US, the CDC publishes the adult immunization schedule by age and condition. Other countries’ health ministries and services such as the NHS publish theirs.
- Ask a pharmacist or doctor. Many pharmacies give flu and other vaccines and can tell you what you are eligible for.
- Keep a record. Note the date, product and batch number of each dose.
If you cannot find your records, a doctor can often check immunity with a blood test or advise on safely repeating a dose.
Safety and side effects
Vaccines used in national programs are tested and continuously monitored for safety. Common side effects are mild and short-lived, such as a sore arm, mild fever, tiredness or aches, usually lasting a day or two. Serious allergic reactions are rare and occur soon after vaccination, which is why you may be asked to wait for a short time afterward. Tell the person vaccinating you about any previous severe allergic reaction to a vaccine or ingredient, whether you are pregnant, and about your health conditions and medicines. A mild fever medicine can help with symptoms; see our paracetamol guide for safe use.
- Adults need some vaccines every year or every ten years, and others depending on age, health, pregnancy, work and travel.
- Schedules differ by country and are updated, so check your national guidance.
- Find your vaccination records, then ask a pharmacist or doctor what you may be missing.
- Common side effects are mild and short-lived.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a tetanus shot after a cut?
It depends on the wound and when you last had a tetanus-containing vaccine. A doctor or pharmacist can advise promptly for dirty or deep wounds.
I do not remember my childhood vaccines. What now?
Check old records or registries. If they cannot be found, a doctor can advise whether to test for immunity or give catch-up doses.
Can I get several vaccines at the same visit?
Often yes. Many vaccines can be given together. Your clinician will advise on the best combination and timing.
When is the best time to get the flu vaccine?
In the Northern Hemisphere, flu vaccination programs typically start in early autumn, ahead of the main flu season. Ask your doctor or pharmacist what is available now.
Sources
Written by the nohas.es Editorial Team from the official sources listed above. Read our Editorial Policy and Fact Checking Policy. Found an error? Tell us.
