Which vaccinations are recommended for adults?
April 19, 2022 | 120,00 EUR | answered by Ben Koch
Dear Doctor,
My name is Lucas Schottmann and I have a question regarding vaccinations for adults. I am 35 years old and have been thinking lately about whether I have all the recommended vaccinations or if I may have neglected some. I received the standard vaccinations in my childhood, but as an adult, I have not been as focused on the topic.
I am concerned that I may not be adequately protected against certain diseases, especially in times of pandemics like the current Covid-19 pandemic. I am aware that vaccinations are an important measure for disease prevention and I want to make sure that I have all the necessary vaccinations to protect my health.
Therefore, my question is: Which vaccinations are recommended for adults of my age? Are there any specific vaccinations that are particularly important or that I may have overlooked? How often should certain vaccinations be refreshed and what risks or side effects may occur? What steps should I take to check my vaccination status and catch up on any missing vaccinations if necessary?
I would greatly appreciate it if you could provide me with information and recommendations on this matter so that I can protect my health optimally.
Thank you in advance.
Sincerely,
Lucas Schottmann
Dear Mr. Schottmann,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding vaccinations for adults. It is very important that you consider your vaccination status and ensure that you are adequately protected against diseases. Especially in times of pandemics like the current Covid-19 pandemic, a good vaccination protection is of great importance.
Below, I will provide you with an overview of the recommended vaccinations for adults at your age. Please note that these recommendations are general and can be adjusted based on individual health conditions. It is therefore advisable to consult your primary care physician to check your personal vaccination status and receive individual recommendations.
Recommended vaccinations for adults include:
- Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough): These vaccinations should be refreshed every 10 years to maintain adequate protection.
- Influenza (flu): Annual flu vaccination is recommended especially for high-risk groups such as individuals over 60 years, pregnant women, and individuals with underlying health conditions.
- Hepatitis A and B: These vaccinations are recommended especially for individuals with an increased risk of infection or occupational exposure.
- Pneumococcal: This vaccination is recommended for adults over 60 years old and individuals with certain underlying health conditions.
- Human papillomavirus (HPV): This vaccination is recommended for women up to the age of 26 and can also be considered for men up to the age of 21.
There are also certain vaccinations that may be recommended based on individual risk profiles or travel plans, such as yellow fever, typhoid, or meningococcal vaccinations.
It is important to note that vaccinations are generally well tolerated, but side effects such as redness, swelling, or mild pain at the injection site may occur. Severe side effects are extremely rare. Talk to your doctor about possible risks and side effects associated with the recommended vaccinations.
To check your vaccination status and catch up on any missing vaccinations if necessary, you should schedule an appointment with your primary care physician. Your doctor can review your current vaccination status based on your vaccination record or electronic vaccination card and recommend any missing vaccinations.
I hope this information is helpful to you. Please do not hesitate to ask further questions or consult your primary care physician to check your vaccination status and receive individual recommendations.
Sincerely,
Ben Koch
