As adults, many of us think about vaccinations for our children but not for ourselves. At first glance, this makes sense given the drastic reduction of many of the diseases in Canada for which we received vaccinations as children. However, there are several reasons why adults should receive vaccinations.

One reason for adult vaccinations is there are some vaccines that do not provide lifelong protection. For example, adults should receive “booster” shots against tetanus and diphtheria every ten years. Also, if specific vaccinations were not received or not available during one’s childhood, like for chicken pox, hepatitis A, or pertussis (whooping cough), then adults should now consider getting those vaccinations. As well, adults should receive the influenza (flu) vaccine every autumn.

In certain parts of the world, some diseases exist or are more common than in Canada. If you travel to these areas, additional vaccines may be recommended. Finally, some jobs or other situations pose a greater risk for getting a specific disease. For example, health care workers, emergency responders, and those who work in laboratories should receive vaccinations for certain infectious diseases to protect themselves as well as to protect their patients and co-workers.

Discuss vaccination recommendations with your physician or health care professional as part of your annual health check-up or prior to travelling abroad. Remember to request an immunization tracking card so that all vaccinations can be recorded and updated.

Key References
Health Canada. (2002). Canadian immunization guide, sixth edition. Retrieved July 6, 2006, from http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/publicat/cig-gci/index.html

Canadian Coalition for Immunization Awareness & Promotion. (2005). Questions and answers about adult immunization. Retrieved July 6, 2006, from http//:www.immunize.cpha.ca/english/hcprovd/provrese/pdf/QandA_e.pdf