What vaccines are essential for adults over 65 and why?

Short answer — the vaccines most older adults (65+) should have are:

- Influenza (flu) — yearly
- Why: older adults have higher risk of severe flu, hospitalization, and death. Annual vaccination reduces these risks and is updated each season.

- COVID-19 — stay up to date with current booster(s) recommended by public health authorities
- Why: older adults are at much higher risk of severe illness, hospitalization and long-term complications; boosters restore protection against current variants.

- Herpes zoster (shingles) — recombinant vaccine (Shingrix), 2 doses (recommended for adults 50+, so important at 65+)
- Why: risk of shingles and painful, long-lasting postherpetic neuralgia rises with age. Shingrix is highly effective at preventing shingles and its complications.

- Pneumococcal vaccine(s) — either a single dose of PCV20 OR PCV15 followed by PPSV23 (timing depends on health status and prior pneumococcal vaccines)
- Why: pneumococcal bacteria cause pneumonia, bloodstream infections and meningitis, which are more likely to be severe in older adults. Vaccination lowers the risk of invasive disease and serious complications.

- Tetanus-diphtheria (Td) booster or Tdap (if not previously received as an adult) — Td or Tdap every 10 years (and Tdap once in adulthood if not given before)
- Why: immunity wanes; tetanus can be fatal after wounds, and periodic boosters maintain protection.

Other vaccines to consider based on history or risk factors:
- Hepatitis B (series) — if not previously vaccinated or if at risk (e.g., diabetes, certain exposures).
- Hepatitis A — for those with travel risk or other risk factors.
- MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) — if no evidence of immunity (many older adults born before 1957 are likely immune, but check records).
- Varicella (chickenpox) — if no history of disease or vaccination.
- Meningococcal, HPV and others — only for specific risk groups or exposures.

Important notes:
- Some vaccine choices/timing depend on prior vaccination history and health conditions (immunocompromise, cochlear implant, chronic lung/heart/kidney/liver disease). For example, intervals between PCV15 and PPSV23 differ for immunocompromised persons.
- Side effects are usually mild (soreness, fatigue, low fever). Serious adverse events are rare.
- Check your vaccine records and talk with your primary care provider or pharmacist to make a personalized plan and ensure correct timing and sequencing.

If you want, tell me your vaccine history and health conditions and I can give a tailored list and suggested timing.