Essential Vaccines for Adults 50 and Older: Stay Healthy and Protected

by Dr. Jen Caudle

Hitting 50 is a milestone worth celebrating—but it’s also a great time to check in on your health, including vaccines. As we age, our immune system weakens, making us more vulnerable to serious illnesses. Fortunately, vaccines can help keep you protected. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends several essential shots for adults 50 and older.

1. Shingles Vaccine (Shingrix)

Shingles is a painful rash caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. If you’ve had chickenpox, the virus can reactivate later in life, leading to weeks of burning pain. The Shingrix vaccine is over 90% effective at preventing shingles and is recommended for everyone 50 and older. Make sure to get it even if you’ve had shingles before because you can get shingles more than once!

2. Flu Vaccine

The flu can lead to complications such as pneumonia and hospitalization. The annual flu vaccine is important to help you stay protected against the flu every year.

3. COVID-19 Vaccine

COVID-19 remains a risk. Stay updated with the latest CDC-recommended COVID-19 vaccines to reduce your risk of severe illness and hospitalization. Depending on your age, you may require 1 or 2 COVID vaccines in any given season.

https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2024/s1023-pneumococcal-vaccination.html

4. Pneumococcal Vaccines

Pneumococcal bacteria can cause serious illnesses, including pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections. Older adults are at increased risk for pneumococcal. The CDC recommends pneumococcal vaccines for those 50+ and for some younger adults with certain health conditions.

5. Tdap or Td Booster (Every 10 Years)

Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough) can still pose risks as you age. A Tdap or Td booster every 10 years ensures you stay protected. If you’ll be around a newborn, a Tdap booster is especially important to prevent the spread of whooping cough.

6. Hepatitis B Vaccine

Hepatitis B can cause serious liver damage and even cancer, and the CDC now recommends the Hepatitis B vaccine for all adults age 19- 59. If you're 60+ and at higher risk (such as having diabetes or liver disease), your doctor may recommend it as well.

Stay Protected—Talk to Your Doctor

Vaccination is one of the easiest ways to maintain your health as you age. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about which vaccines you need to stay strong and protected for years to come. Also, in addition to the vaccines mentioned in this article, there are other vaccines you may qualify for. Make sure you talk to your doctor.

Best,

Dr. Jen

Dr. Jen Caudle is a board-certified Family Physician, Associate Professor at Rowan University,  tv health expert, and video creator. I invite you to subscribe to my Meditation Channel on YouTube.  Also, follow me on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. Also sign up for my free health newsletter at www.drjencaudle.com.