Adult vaccine
Vaccines for Older Adults
Older adults are offered several vaccines — including flu, COVID-19, pneumococcal, shingles and RSV — because infections can be more serious with age.
What it protects against
The vaccines offered to older adults protect against infections that tend to be more serious later in life, including flu, COVID-19, pneumococcal disease, shingles and RSV.
Who it's for
Adults in defined older age groups, with some vaccines offered from particular ages, as the immune system weakens and infections carry more risk with age.
How it works
Each vaccine prompts the immune system to build protection against its target infection. Some, such as flu and COVID-19, are given regularly as protection fades and viruses change.
Safety
Safety and side effects
These vaccines are safe and well tolerated, with mainly mild effects such as a sore arm and tiredness. Being vaccinated greatly reduces the risk of serious illness and hospital admission.
Education and reference only. This is general information, not a personal recommendation, and does not list doses — follow the current NHS schedule and your clinician's advice. Seek urgent help for signs of a serious allergic reaction after any vaccine.
Answers
Vaccines for Older Adults: frequently asked questions
Which vaccines should older adults have?
Depending on age and health, older adults are offered flu and COVID-19 (regularly), pneumococcal, shingles and RSV vaccines. Your GP surgery will invite you when you are eligible.
Why do older people need more vaccines?
The immune system weakens with age, so infections such as flu, pneumonia and shingles are more likely to cause serious illness. Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to stay well.
Related
Other adult vaccines
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Vaccinations
- UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) — the Green Book
- WHO — immunization
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