Recommended vaccinations

WHO SHOULD GET IT

• People who live with or are partners to persons with hepatitus B

• Staff members at institutions for people with developmental disabilities • People traveling to countries with a high rate of hepatitis B infection • People with hepatitis C.

Two doses of recombinant zoster vaccine (Shingrix) are FDA-approved for people ages 50 and over (unless there are medical reasons not to do so, such as an allergy or current fever or shingles outbreak). The two-dose vaccine is also recommended for people who have already had shingles or received the older, live virus vaccine (Zostavax).

Once annually for all adults (unless there are reasons not to). A high-dose vaccine is available for adults 65 and older.

All adults 65 or over should have one dose of PPSV23 (Pneumovax 23), because it covers the types of pneumococcus responsible for about one-third of dangerous infections in that age group. Those without immunocompromising conditions should consider one dose of PCV13 (Prevnar 13), followed by Pneumovax 23 a year later. Anyone who received PPSV23 before age 65 should receive one final dose of the vaccine at age 65 or older.

After primary series is given (usually in childhood), a booster shot every 10 years (unless

there are reasons not to).

For people younger than 65, a one-time dose of Tdap (tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis vaccine) is recommended in place of their next Td booster shot to prevent pertussis (whooping cough). Adults ages 65 and over (such as grandparents, child care providers, and health care workers) who have close contact with infants under 12 months old and who have never had a Tdap shot should have it once to protect against pertussis.

Two doses for adults who do not have evidence of immunity to chickenpox (for example,

people who have never had chickenpox and who haven’t been vaccinated).

The CDC recommends that all adults with a few exceptions (mostly related to severe allergic reactions) be vaccinated for COVID-19. Several vaccines are now available, with different dosing schedules. Ask your doctor if you need any other vaccines.