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Do adults need to be immunized too?

Although many people don't know it, adults need to get vaccines, too — to protect your health, and to keep you from spreading diseases to your family, friends and co-workers.

Some of these vaccines are "booster" doses, because some vaccines you had when you were younger don't provide long-term protection. For example, you should have a diphtheria/tetanus vaccine every 10 years.
Other vaccines protect you against viruses or bacteria that change over time. New strains of flu viruses arrive every year, which is why adults get an annual flu shot.
And as you get older, your risk rises for certain diseases such as shingles, and vaccines become important.
Finally, adults or children who are travelling overseas may need immunizations against diseases they may encounter. Talk to your health provider or visit a travel medicine clinic two to three months before you leave.