Date last reviewed:
Thursday, May 02, 2024
On this page:
Why adults need vaccines
Immunization is important for protecting your health in every stage of life.
As you get older, protection from some vaccines you received when you were younger can wear off and additional doses (boosters) are needed to maintain protection. You are also at greater risk for certain diseases as you age. In addition, specific vaccines may be recommended for you based on your job, travel plans, health conditions, or other factors.
Vaccines are the best way to protect you from many preventable diseases that can cause serious illness, long-term disability, and even death. By keeping up to date with your vaccines, you also help protect others.
Vaccines recommended for adults
Vaccines are recommended for adults throughout their lives. Many of these vaccines are free (paid for by the BC government), and others may need to be purchased.
All adults need:
- Influenza (flu) vaccine (yearly).
- COVID-19 vaccine (as recommended).
- Tetanus and diphtheria (Td) vaccine (every 10 years).
- Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) vaccine (once as an adult and during each pregnancy).
- Shingles vaccine (at 50 years or older).
- Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (at 65 years or older).
You might need other vaccines based on your age, health conditions, job, life events, travel, or other factors. In addition, there are vaccines you can purchase for extra protection.
To learn more about what vaccines might be recommended for you, talk to your health care provider or visit our Vaccines adults need page.