What to know first
- Adults need an annual influenza vaccine and periodic Td or Tdap vaccination.
- Shingles vaccination is recommended for adults 50 and older.
- Pneumococcal and RSV recommendations depend on age, risk, and vaccination history.
Review by age and risk
CDC recommends routine vaccines across adulthood and additional vaccines based on age, job, travel, pregnancy, and health conditions. Adults 50 and older should review shingles and pneumococcal vaccination; RSV guidance varies by age and risk.
COVID-19 recommendations can change by season and risk. Use the current CDC schedule rather than an old printed checklist.
Bring your history
Collect records from pharmacies, clinics, employers, and state immunization systems. Ask which doses are complete, which need repeating, and whether live vaccines are appropriate with immune-suppressing treatment.
Vaccination can often be coordinated with routine visits. A clinician or pharmacist can advise on timing, side effects, allergies, and whether multiple vaccines can be given together.
Sources and further reading
We prioritize authoritative public-health and government sources. Open each source to review the original guidance and latest updates.