Here is a list of Recommended Vaccines for Adults: What You Need to Know
As adults, we often think vaccines are mainly for children—but staying up to date on immunizations is one of the most important ways to protect your long-term health. Many serious illnesses can be prevented with safe, effective vaccines that strengthen your immune system and reduce the risk of complications, hospitalizations, and missed work or family time.
Here is a simple, clear guide to the most important vaccines recommended for adults and why they matter.
Our Castle Rock Doctors have all available vaccine on-site
1. Influenza (Flu) Vaccine – Every Year
Why it matters: The flu is more than a bad cold. It can lead to pneumonia, breathing difficulties, and hospitalization—especially in adults with asthma, COPD, diabetes, heart disease, or weakened immune systems.
Who should get it:
✔ All adults, every fall
✔ Pregnant women (protects both mother and baby)
✔ Adults 65+ should get a high-dose or adjuvanted version if available
2. COVID-19 Vaccine – Annual Update
Why it matters: COVID-19 continues to circulate and can still cause severe lung and heart complications, especially in older adults or those with chronic medical conditions.
Who should get it:
✔ All adults, yearly—similar to the flu shot
✔ Extra attention for adults 65+, immunocompromised, or with chronic disease
3. Tdap/Td (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Why it matters:
• Tetanus enters through cuts and causes muscle spasms
• Diphtheria can cause severe throat and heart damage
• Pertussis (whooping cough) is highly contagious and dangerous for infants
Who should get it:
✔ Tdap once as an adult
✔ A booster (Td or Tdap) every 10 years
✔ Pregnant women should receive Tdap during every pregnancy to protect newborns
4. Shingles (Shingrix)
Why it matters: Shingles is caused by reactivation of the chickenpox virus and can lead to months of burning nerve pain (post-herpetic neuralgia). It is extremely common in adults over 50.
Who should get it:
✔ Adults 50+, 2-dose series
✔ Adults 19+ with weakened immune systems
5. Pneumonia Vaccines (PCV20 or PCV15 + PPSV23)
Why it matters: Pneumococcal pneumonia can cause severe lung infections, bloodstream infections, and meningitis.
Who should get it:
✔ Adults 65+
✔ Adults under 65 with:
– Chronic heart, lung, or liver disease
– Diabetes
– Smoking
– Asthma or COPD
– Immunocompromising conditions
Your clinician will determine whether you need one shot (PCV20) or a two-step series.
6. HPV Vaccine (Gardasil-9)
Why it matters: Protects against several cancers caused by human papillomavirus—including cervical, throat, anal, and genital cancers—as well as genital warts.
Who should get it:
✔ Adults up to age 26 (routine)
✔ Ages 27–45 may benefit depending on risk and history—talk with your clinician
7. Hepatitis A & B Vaccines
Hepatitis B
Why it matters: Hepatitis B spreads through blood and body fluids and can cause chronic liver damage or cancer.
Who should get it:
✔ All adults 19–59
✔ Adults 60+ with diabetes, liver disease, or risk factors
✔ Anyone wanting protection—no risk factors needed
Hepatitis A
Why it matters: Causes sudden liver inflammation, often from contaminated food or water.
Who should get it:
✔ Travelers
✔ Adults with chronic liver disease
✔ Men who have sex with men
✔ People experiencing homelessness
✔ Anyone wanting protection
8. RSV Vaccine (Newer Recommendation)
Why it matters: RSV can cause dangerous lung infections in older adults.
Who should get it:
✔ Adults 60+, based on shared decision-making with their provider
✔ Pregnant women (to protect newborns)
Why Staying Up to Date Matters
Vaccines are one of the most effective and safest ways to protect your health. As we age or develop chronic health conditions, our immune system becomes more vulnerable. Keeping immunizations current reduces your risk of:
- Serious infections
- Hospitalizations
- Missed work or activities
- Complications in chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, or COPD
Your healthcare provider can review your history and help determine which vaccines you may be due for.
Have questions about which vaccines you need?
Our clinic is here to help. We offer personalized vaccine recommendations, easy scheduling, and clear explanations to ensure you feel confident in your care. BOOK NOW
