Before Covid-19, whenever we heard about vaccination, we used to think that it is only for children. But it’s not like that. Vaccination is needed for adults as well. Adult vaccines are important in protecting your body against infectious diseases because some childhood vaccines may not provide lifelong immunity. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state that your age, occupation, way of life, where you travel, and health issues could put you at risk for diseases and this can be prevented by vaccination.

Depending on their lifestyle, health, and other factors, adults may require various vaccinations. However, you should be aware that no vaccine is 100 per cent effective and cannot completely shield you from contracting any disease. However, vaccinations are crucial in lowering the risk of contracting a disease and reduce your chances of becoming seriously ill.

5 adult vaccines you need

Here is a list of adult vaccines that you must get to ward off diseases:

1. Flu vaccine (Influenza)

The influenza virus infects the nose, throat, and lungs and causes flu, a contagious respiratory illness. It can result in mild to severe illness, hospitalization, and even death. Every year, vaccination for seasonal flu is required for all adults. The flu vaccine is especially important for people with chronic health conditions. Some vaccines are also not advised for certain population, such as those with compromised immune system or medical conditions.

2. Hepatitis A vaccine

An infant receives their first dose of the hepatitis A vaccine between the ages of 12 and 23 months, and their second dose is given six months after the first. Children who are older and have never received a vaccination should do so between the ages of 2 and 18 years. Adults who wish to protect themselves from hepatitis A but have never had a vaccine may do so. Additionally, those who often interact with infected persons with HIV, or chronic liver illness should get inoculated. Those who have travelled internationally, or are at high risk of contracting the disease at work should also take this vaccine.

Also read: Vaccination is boon for Hepatitis in children: Reasons why it is vital

3. Hepatitis–B

It is necessary for all adults between the ages of 19 and 59 to get vaccinated against hepatitis B. The liver is impacted by this illness. Additionally, adults 60 and older with hepatitis B risk factors are advised to get the vaccine. It is not specifically advised to get vaccinated against if you are not at risk. However, if you belong to that group, you can get the hepatitis B vaccine if you choose.

4. Human papillomavirus (HPV)

Human papillomavirus vaccine is recommended for boys and girls between the ages of 11 and 12. Teenagers and young adults who start the vaccination series later, between the ages of 15 and 26, should get the vaccine in three doses. There are fewer advantages to HPV vaccination in this age range because more people have already been exposed to HPV. The HPV vaccine Gardasil 9 has received approval from the Food and Drug Administration for use in both males and females aged 9 to 45. The common virus HPV has also been linked to cancer, which makes it important for you to get vaccinated against the disease.

5. Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap or Td)

Tdap is typically administered once at 11 or 12. Better advice is to get a Tdap vaccination as soon as possible if you have never had one. If you are pregnant, you need an extra dose of Tdap, and if you are injured, you might also need an extra dose of Td or Tdap. Additionally, women should receive one dose of the Tdap vaccine during each pregnancy, ideally between weeks 27 and 36. Tdap can shield you from breathing issues caused by lockjaw (tetanus), whooping cough (pertussis), and diphtheria. It is advised to get a booster every ten years.

Find out which vaccinations are suggested for you when you visit your doctor or healthcare professional at your next appointment!