National Vaccination Day: List Of Vaccines Every Adult Over 50 Should Get

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The Indian government observes National Vaccination Day on 16 March, in recognition of and appreciation of the hard work of frontline healthcare workers to ensure the vaccination of every child.

National Vaccination Day 2023 theme is "Vaccines Work For Everyone". The primary goal of National Vaccination Day is to raise awareness about the benefits of vaccination.

On the occasion of national vaccination week, let us take a look at the list of vaccines every adult over 50 should get.

Importance Of Vaccination For Adults Over 50

Vaccines are often seen as something children get at their regular checkups, but it is important to keep up on your vaccines regardless of your age to ensure your protection against illnesses that can result in serious illness [1].

It is imperative that adults over the age of 50 remain current on their immunisations due to the fact that our immune systems weaken as we age.

How many vaccinations should you get at the age of 50 and beyond? Experts advise that new vaccines have been developed in the past few years specifically for older adults. Our immune system weakens over time as we get older, increasing our risk for certain diseases.

Therefore, adults over the age of 50 should obtain the following vaccines.

List Of Vaccines Every Adult Over 50 Should Get

1. Shingles

CDC recommends that all healthy adults 50 and older receive two shots of Shingrix, the latest shingles vaccination. You should get the shots two to six months apart. It is much more effective than Zostavax, which was taken off the market in 2020 [2].

2. Flu shot

Each year, there are more than 100 strains of influenza. The flu vaccine covers only four of the possible 100 strains out of more than one hundred.

Sixty per cent of influenza-related hospitalisations occur among patients 65 years of age and older, so it is very important that seniors receive the flu vaccine each year [3].

3. Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV15 or PCV20)

Vaccination against pneumococcal pneumonia and serious pneumococcal disease (recommended for adults 65 years and older who have not had a pneumococcal conjugate vaccine) is recommended; if PCV15 is used, it should be followed by PPSV23, which also protects against serious pneumococcal disease [4].

4. Tetanus vaccine

The Tdap vaccine is recommended for all adults at least once in their lifetime. It is a combination of tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (the bacteria that cause whooping cough). It is recommended that adults receive a tetanus booster every ten years after receiving the Tdap vaccine.

If you have a large wound, you should renew your Td if your last booster was more than five years ago [5].

5. Hepatitis A vaccine

Infections due to Hepatitis A, a liver disease, occur primarily in individuals 50 and older. Travel to a country with a prevalent hepatitis A virus transmission rate, close contact with an infected individual, or recreational drug use are the most common causes of infection [6].

Vaccination against Hepatitis B should also be considered by those over fifty years of age.

On A Final Note...

Children are not the only ones who should receive vaccinations. Some childhood vaccines may wear off over time, and you may also be at risk of vaccine-preventable diseases due to your age, occupation, lifestyle, travel, or health conditions.

In order to determine which vaccines are recommended for you at your next medical appointment, consult with your physician or healthcare provider.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.