The topic of vaccinations is all over the media these days with the COVID-19 vaccination being rolled out globally. But you may not know that there are a whole host of other adult vaccinations that you should consider getting.

The death rate from diseases like diphtheria, tetanus and meningitis was high all over the world when there was a lack of vaccines. However, with the availability of vaccines for most infectious diseases, this has been prevented. The fact that over 93% of infants are vaccinated in Australia is also a factor that contributes to the low death rate.

Vaccinations are important for children as most of us are aware of. But they are also important for adults. Adults often require boosters or a simple vaccine shot to protect themselves against diseases. This article provides essential information on adult vaccinations.

Types of Adult Vaccines

• Influenza: Several doctors recommended that all adults should have an influenza shot at least once a year. This is often referred to as the flu shot and is usually administered during autumn or early winter and acts a good preventive measure. This vaccine is vital for adults over 65 as well as pregnant women.

• Tdap/Td: This is a vaccine that protects against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis(whooping cough). It is essential for pregnant women to receive this vaccine. It is also recommended that people over 11 take a shot or Tdap vaccine. It is recommended that this be taken every 10 years.

• MMR: This is an important vaccine that protects against several diseases like measle, mumps and rubella. It is important for everyone to take this vaccine, especially if travelling abroad.

• Chickenpox: This is a vaccine that almost all children take. However, this is highly recommended for adults who have not taken this vaccine as a child. This is very important for pregnant women as well.

• Pneumococcal: This is a very important vaccine since it protects against several chronic diseases. This consists of two PCV13 and PPSV23. For those with a weak immune system and those suffering from chronic illness, it is necessary to receive this vaccine.

• Zoster: This is an important vaccine that is meant for adults over 60. It provides vital immunisations against shingles which tends to affect a lot of people.

• HPV: HPV (Human papillomavirus) infection causes skin wards, genital warts, cancer, cervical cancer. This can spread by skin to skin contact as well as during sexual activity. This is one vaccine that is recommended for females between the age of 9 to 18 years.

• Diphtheria: Diphtheria has been more or less eradicated in Australia however there do happen to be several isolated cases. These are mainly people who have failed to get themselves immunised. This also happens to be a common vaccine that is scheduled for all children. It is also necessary for adults over the age of 50 to receive a booster of this vaccine.

• Catchup Vaccines: There are many types of vaccines that are usually scheduled in childhood like Polio, Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Hepatitis B. Although boosters are not necessary for these vaccines it is advisable for adults to consult their doctor regarding this.
• Meningitis Vaccines – Adults should opt to be vaccinated against different Meningitis diseases. If Meningitis is contracted, this could be extremely painful and fatal. Bexsero or Trumenda are the recommended Meningitis B vaccinations for adults. There are a number of different vaccinations against the ACWY strains. It is best to speak to your doctor about the best vaccine for you.

What You Should Know About Adult Vaccinations

Vaccines are equally important for adults as they are for children.  Here are some vital facts on adult vaccinations that everyone should be aware of.

• Several people must be aware of travel vaccines, these are vaccines that are essential before travelling to several countries as a booster and better prevention. However, adult vaccines are different from travel vaccines.

• Adult vaccines are similar to those meant for children. These vaccines are not only boosters, but they also serve the purpose of being vaccinated for those who have missed out on vaccines as a child.

• If you are someone who is under the misconception that vaccines are only meant for children, you are highly mistaken since they are also necessary for adults. There are many different types of vaccines, for example, there are boosters vaccines for adults for the vaccines they might have had as a child. There are also vaccines which were recently introduced and might be necessary for adults to take.

 Are you up to date with all your vaccinations? Tell us in the comments below.