We are all aware of preventive health care and vaccination schedules for children, but how many of us really know about the same for older adults or seniors? 

Over the past 50 years, the population of India aged 50 years and above (older adults) has quadrupled and is expected to reach 404 million by 2036, representing 27% of the country’s projected population.

As we age, our immune system weakens, making us susceptible to infections and diseases we were once vaccinated against as children. Plus, new strains and outbreaks happen every year (like flu or COVID). And then new threats like shingles and HPV emerge, requiring additional protection. Declining physiological functions due to ageing, in addition, put us at a greater likelihood of life-threatening comorbidities such as asthma, diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, stroke, and more.

Going by the demographics, the contribution of chronic diseases to older adults’ total burden of diseases in India is likely to escalate multifold in the next few years.

There is a clear mandate to a) recognise the contributions of older adults to society, and b) embrace strategies to promote healthy ageing – a process of developing and maintaining functional ability and well-being in older age, as described by the WHO (World Health Organisation).

Why Must Adults Pay Attention to Vaccines

Adult vaccinations can play a significant role in minimising the risk of serious illnesses, hospitalisations, and complications from diseases that are more common in older adults, consequently diminishing the burden imposed by vaccine-preventable infectious diseases to a large extent.

Increasing vaccination awareness and coverage among older adults is thus a crucial step in this direction in India.

Adult vaccinations aren’t a one-size-fits-all. Your age, health, lifestyle, and travel history influence your vaccination needs. Most are delivered as part of a routine schedule, while others are recommended for high-risk individuals or travellers.

Preventive immunizations for adults may essentially include an annual flu vaccine, a Tdap/Td booster every 10 years, and specific vaccines based on age or risk factors, such as MMR, Varicella, and HPV. Adults 50+ should receive Shingrix for shingles, and those 65+ need the pneumococcal vaccine to maintain immunity. 

Key Recommended Vaccines for Adults:

• Influenza (Flu): Annual shot for all adults, ideally in October/November – the fall season.
• Tdap/Td: A one-time dose if never received, followed by a booster every 10 years for tetanus (lockjaw), diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). This is particularly important for those who are in close contact with infants. For women, a booster every pregnancy is the recommended dosage.
• COVID-19: Updated doses as recommended to prevent serious illness, hospitalisation, or death from COVID. Typically, annual boosters for high-risk or older adults.
• Shingles (Shingrix): Prevents painful shingles and complications, even if you’ve had shingles before. A two-dose series, 2-6 months apart, is recommended for healthy adults aged 50+.
• Hepatitis B: Recommended dosage is 2, 3, or 4, depending on vaccine type and health condition. The vaccine protects against a chronic liver infection transmitted through bodily fluids, which may lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer. It’s recommended for all adults aged 19–59 (especially healthcare workers, people with multiple sexual partners, and those who’ve donated/received blood in the past), or who haven’t been previously vaccinated.
• Pneumococcal: The vaccine protects against pneumococcal bacteria, which can cause pneumonia, meningitis, and other infections. Recommended for all adults aged 65+ and younger adults (19–64) with high-risk medical conditions such as asthma, COPD or any other immunocompromised state.
• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella): A vaccine to guard against these contagious and potentially harmful illnesses, for adults born in 1957 or later with no previous proof of immunity.
• RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus): For adults 60+ or pregnant women (based on season), against fatal pneumonia and inflammation of the small airways in the lungs. 
• HPV (Human Papillomavirus): This vaccine safeguards against HPV, a major cause of cervical cancer and other cancers (vaginal, penile, anal and throat). Recommended for both men and women through ages 19-26 and 27-45, optional based on risk.

Catch-Up & Special Situation Vaccinations

These are additional for adults who missed childhood shots, are immunocompromised, or have specific risk factors (e.g., job, health condition, or sexual orientation). 

• Varicella (Chickenpox): Two doses for adults who never had the disease or the vaccine. Provides double protection against chickenpox and shingles, a complication thereof.
• Meningococcal: Recommended for college students, military recruits, or people with specific health risks.
• Hepatitis A: Two doses, 6–18 months apart, if you are planning a trip to a region with high hepatitis A risk. The vaccine guards against a contagious viral infection of the liver caused by contaminated food or water.
• Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib): For adults with specific conditions, such as asplenia (absence of spleen) or after a bone marrow transplant. 

Travel & Non-Routine Vaccinations

Vaccinations for destination-specific requirements. 

• Typhoid & Cholera: For travel to regions where these diseases are common.
• Yellow Fever & Japanese Encephalitis: Often required or recommended for specific international destinations.
• Rabies: For travellers or workers with high animal exposure.
• Mpox: Recommended for those at high risk of exposure. 

Consult your healthcare provider to determine the specific vaccines you may require based on your age, health condition, job profile, and lifestyle. 

Coverage and Accessibility

While some vaccines are included in government immunization programs, others might require out-of-pocket expenses. Check with your Medicare for coverage details.

Vaccines can be obtained at various locations, including doctors’ offices, pharmacies, and local health departments.

Vaccines act as a shield, defending us from serious illnesses and their potential life-threatening consequences. They prevent long-term suffering and thus save us from the emotional and financial burden of getting sick.

Adult Vaccinations ~ A Healthier Society

Getting vaccinated is not just a personal choice; it’s a community responsibility. Staying up to date with adult vaccinations is one of the best ways to maintain good health and well-being in later years because staying protected never goes out of age. 

Note: This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult your health care provider.