It’s not just children that need to be vaccinated against potentially life-threatening transmissible viruses. It is very important for adults as well. Not only are adults more at risk for different diseases, but the immunity we developed from the vaccines we received as children can wear off over time. The Centers for Diseases Control (CDC) has developed a schedule of recommended vaccinations, from birth to adulthood, that citizens and residents should receive throughout their life. Statistics show that approximately one out of three people in the United States will develop shingles at least once in their lifetime, and the risk increases as you grow older. In addition, more than 60 percent of all seasonal flu hospitalizations in the United States are in those 65 years of age or older. As we age our immune system naturally weakens, which puts us at risk for contracting certain diseases, which stresses the importance of vaccinations as well as doing what we can to keep our immune system as strong as possible as we get older. The seasonal flu vaccine is highly recommended, and an important vaccine to get each year, especially for those with chronic health conditions, who are pregnant and older adults. As well, all adults are recommended to get a Tdap vaccine once, if it was not received as an adolescent, which protects against pertussis (whooping cough). Adults 65 and older with certain health conditions are strongly advised to get a pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV 23) to protect against pneumococcal disease, meningitis and bloodstream disorders. The pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV 13) is recommended for all adults with a weakened immune system condition, cerebrospinal leak, or a cochlear implant. Everyone in the United States is urged to get the COVID-19 vaccination, and to discuss any concerns you may have with your doctor.