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Many people think vaccines are just for kids. Some vaccines protect you for life against certain diseases. But others wear off. For instance, adults (ages 19 and older) need a Td booster every 10 years depending on their vaccination history; adults ages 60 and older need a shingles vaccination.
Many adults in the US are not up-to-date with their vaccinations. That’s risky. Diseases that vaccines can prevent still kill thousands of people.
Some people are at higher risk for diseases that vaccines can prevent. These people include children, the elderly, travelers to some foreign countries, healthcare workers, and people with some medical conditions.
So, are you sure that you have had all the vaccinations you need? If not, see your doctor.
Keep track of your vaccines
It’s easy to forget your vaccination history. You may lose track of your medical records. You may forget when you were vaccinated last. Your doctor can help. He or she can give you any vaccinations you need.
Once you’re back on track, keep a record for yourself. Use this handy Vaccination Record Wallet Card (PDF Format) and keep it up-to-date.
Before your next appointment, check this Adult Vaccination Schedule (PDF Format) from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to see what shots you may have missed. Also, the Your Next Appointment form (PDF Format) shows you questions to ask your doctor. You can print the form, fill it out, and take it with you to your next office visit.
No matter what your age, getting vaccinated is a key to staying healthy. And, it can help keep the people around you healthy, too.
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