Guarding Your Health at Every Stage: Why Adult Vaccinations Matter
8/19/2026
When we think of vaccines, we often picture pediatric clinics, school charts, and crying toddlers. Many people think that once we reach adulthood, our immunization journey is complete – but, in fact, protection from childhood vaccines can fade over time, and new health risks emerge as we age.
“Keeping up with adult vaccines is one of the safest and most effective ways to stay healthy, active, and present for the people you love,” says Manjul Srivastava, M.D., who sees patients at Northwest Primary Care at Fountain Plaza.
August is National Immunization Awareness Month – the perfect time to review your vaccination history and speak with your healthcare provider about which vaccinations (or boosters) you may be due for.
Why Do Adults Need Vaccines?
Your vaccination schedule needs maintenance throughout your adult life because of:
- Fading Immunity: The protective benefits of certain childhood vaccines, such as the tetanus shot, wear off over time and requires regular boosters.
- New Vulnerabilities: As our immune systems age, we become more susceptible to serious complications from common infections like influenza (the flu) or shingles.
- Protecting Others: Staying vaccinated creates a shield of protection around vulnerable members of our community, including newborn babies, pregnant women, and people fighting cancer or chronic illnesses.
Which Vaccines Should You Discuss with Your Doctor?
According to Dr. Srivastava, it’s wise to discuss the following (depending on your age, lifestyle, and underlying health conditions) with your healthcare provider:
- The Tdap Booster: This protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). All adults need a booster every 10 years, and pregnant women should receive one during every pregnancy to protect their newborns.
- The Shingles Vaccine: Recommended for adults aged 50 and older, this two-dose series is over 90% effective at preventing shingles and the severe, long-term nerve pain it can cause.
- Pneumococcal Vaccines: These protect against severe pneumococcal diseases (such as meningitis and bloodstream infections) and are recommended as a single dose for people over 50 who have never received it before. It’s also recommended for adults between 19-49 who have specific risk factors or chronic conditions (including cigarette smoking, alcohol use disorder, chronic lung disease, or immunosuppression).
- Annual Respiratory Protections: As we head into autumn, it’s vital to plan for your annual flu shot and updated COVID-19 vaccine. Providers may also strongly recommend a seasonal RSV vaccine to help prevent severe respiratory illness in older adults, or those who are pregnant.
Your Next Steps
Your health needs are unique, and your vaccination strategy should be too. Take a moment this month to check your status. If you are unsure which vaccines you have received, don't worry – your provider can help access and review that information.
To make an appointment with a primary care physician at Northwest Healthcare fir a wellness visit and vaccine consultation, visit https://www.nwalliedphysicians.com/family-medicine-care or https://www.nwalliedphysicians.com/internal-medicine-care.
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