Vaccines aren’t just for kids. As an adult, staying current on your vaccinations is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your health.
Depending on your age, lifestyle, medical history and travel plans, you may need routine vaccines, boosters or catch-up doses.
“Immunizations are essential,” said Vivek Kesara, MD, a family medicine specialist with Banner Health. “They protect us against serious diseases that have caused a lot of sickness, disability and death in the past.”
While the list of recommended vaccines may seem long, you won’t need every shot every year. Some offer lifelong protection with just a few doses. Here's what adults need to know.
Recommended vaccines for adults
Influenza (flu)
- Who needs it: All adults
(Children also need annual flu shots—ask your pediatrician.) - When: Every year, ideally in the fall
- What to know: There are multiple flu vaccines, including options for people over 65 and those with certain health conditions.
Tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (Tdap or Td)
- Who needs it: All adults
- When: One Tdap dose if never received, then a Td or Tdap booster every 10 years
- What to know: Pregnant people should get a Tdap dose during each pregnancy. You may also need a booster after certain injuries.
Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR)
- Who needs it: Adults born in 1957 or later without evidence of immunity
- When: One or two doses
- What to know: Most people born before 1957 are assumed to be immune.
Chickenpox (varicella)
- Who needs it: Adults who’ve never had chickenpox or the vaccine
- When: Two doses, 4–8 weeks apart
- What to know: If you were born before 1980, you may be considered immune. Your doctor can confirm.
Shingles (zoster)
- Who needs it: Adults 50 and older
- When: Two doses of Shingrix, 2–6 months apart
- What to know: Adults under 50 with weakened immune systems may also qualify.
Human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Who needs it: Adults up to age 26, or up to age 45 depending on risk
- When: Two doses if started before age 15, or three doses if started later
- What to know: HPV vaccines help prevent certain cancers. Talk to your provider about eligibility if you’re 27–45.
Pneumococcal (pneumonia)
- Who needs it: Adults 65 and older, or younger adults with certain conditions
- When: One dose of PCV20, or a dose of PCV15 followed by PPSV23
- What to know: Your provider will recommend the best option based on your health.
Hepatitis A
- Who needs it: Adults at risk or who want protection
- When: Two or three doses, depending on the vaccine
- What to know: This vaccine is especially recommended for travelers, people with liver disease, or during certain outbreaks.
Hepatitis B
- Who needs it: All adults 19–59; adults 60+ based on risk
- When: Two or three doses depending on the vaccine
- What to know: You can sometimes get combined Hep A/B shots for convenience.
Meningococcal (ACWY and B)
- Who needs it: Adults at risk due to medical conditions, travel or exposure
- When: One or more doses, with boosters every 5 years for some
- What to know: ACWY and B are different vaccines; your doctor will help you determine if you need one or both.
Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b)
- Who needs it: Adults with certain medical conditions (e.g., after a stem cell transplant)
- When: One to three doses, based on need
- What to know: This vaccine helps protect against some serious infections like meningitis.
COVID-19
- Who needs it: All adults
(COVID-19 vaccines are also recommended for children. Your provider can guide your whole family’s vaccination needs.) - When: Follow current AAFP guidance based on your age, health and prior doses
- What to know: Vaccine recommendations may change, so check with your provider for updates.
Not every vaccine is right for everyone
“While these vaccines are beneficial for most adults, they may not be recommended for people with certain allergies, health conditions or weakened immune systems,” Dr. Kesara said. Your provider can help you weigh the risks and benefits based on your medical history.
Bottom line
Getting vaccinated is an easy way to take control of your health. Whether you need a yearly flu shot, a shingles vaccine, or a catch-up on childhood immunizations, your Banner Health provider can guide you through what’s needed and when.
Make an appointment to review your vaccination history and stay up to date.
Related articles
- College Bound? Ensure Your Teen is Vaccinated and Protected
- 7 Tips to Boost Your Health for Fall and Winter
- Tips to Avoid a Sore Arm After Your Flu Shot
Content in this article was updated on June 26, 2025.
