Immunizations protect infants and children against vaccine-preventable diseases — but they are just as important for older people. As you get older, your immune system can become less effective at protecting you from some diseases. Immunization is a proven and safe way to protect yourself against illnesses that can cause serious harm, and sometimes even death. It also helps stop the spread of disease and protects others in your community.
Why immunization matters as you age#
Immunizations for older people can prevent many diseases that cause health problems later in life, helping you live a longer, healthier and more comfortable life.
Some diseases are more dangerous to older people than to the general population. Older people can also catch infections more easily and take longer to recover. On top of this, immunity you built up earlier in life can fade over time, meaning you could catch diseases you thought you were protected against. The good news is that a simple vaccination can guard against many of these illnesses.
Even diseases that are not a serious threat to you can spread when immunization rates are low, putting more vulnerable people — such as young babies — at risk. It is never too late to start protecting yourself, even if you missed some vaccinations as a child.
Diseases you can protect against#
Common diseases that vaccines can protect older adults against include:
- COVID-19
- tetanus
- diphtheria
- influenza (flu)
- pneumococcal disease
- whooping cough (pertussis)
- shingles (herpes zoster)
Recommended schedules differ by country and may depend on your age and health, and some vaccines — such as the annual influenza vaccine — need to be repeated each year. In many places, certain vaccines are provided free or subsidized for older adults and for people with particular medical risk conditions, because they can become very ill, or even die, if unprotected. Some populations may also be eligible at younger ages. Ask your doctor or immunization provider what applies to you.
Working out what you need#
The immunizations you may need are decided by your health, age, lifestyle and occupation — together known as your HALO. Your doctor will weigh these factors when recommending vaccines for you, so the right schedule will vary from person to person.
Whooping cough and protecting babies#
Whooping cough spreads easily and can cause severe illness, and even death, especially in babies under 6 months of age. In many places, pregnant women are advised to have a whooping cough vaccine in the second half of pregnancy to protect their baby in the first months of life, before the baby’s own vaccinations begin.
Adults who will be around a new baby — such as grandparents — are also commonly advised to have a booster, to keep the baby as safe as possible. Even if you were vaccinated as a child or had whooping cough before, your immunity can wear off, so a booster is generally recommended if you have not had one in the past 10 years.
Other vaccines you may need#
Your doctor may recommend other vaccinations depending on your HALO factors. For example, if you are planning to travel, you may need protection against diseases that are common in the countries you are visiting. Talk to your doctor to arrange these in good time.
Where to get immunized#
Vaccines may be given by your doctor, a clinic nurse, a specialist, or pharmacists and nurse immunizers at some pharmacies. Keep in mind that you may have to pay a consultation fee to see a provider even if the vaccine itself is free, so ask when you book your appointment.
For more information, the best place to start is with your doctor. You can also ask a clinic nurse or specialist, and stick to reliable, evidence-based sources when looking online.
Key points#
- Immunizations remain important in later life because your immune system weakens and earlier immunity can fade.
- Vaccines for older adults commonly cover COVID-19, tetanus, diphtheria, influenza, pneumococcal disease, whooping cough and shingles.
- Your needs depend on your health, age, lifestyle and occupation (HALO).
- A whooping cough booster is generally advised every 10 years and for adults who will be around a new baby.
Where to get help and trusted information#
For evidence-based global health guidance, see Source: World Health Organization (WHO).
Sources & further reading
For evidence-based global guidance on this topic, consult authoritative public-health bodies such as the World Health Organization (WHO), CDC, NHS, and ECDC.