Adult Vaccine Schedule
CDC-recommended vaccines for adults 50+, in plain English.
Where to get them
Most adults can walk into CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid, Costco, Walmart, or your local pharmacy for vaccines without an appointment. Medicare Part B and most insurance covers most adult vaccines free. Save the receipts.
Flu (Influenza)
When: Every year, ideally September-October.
Who: Everyone over 6 months, especially 65+.
Why: Flu hospitalizes 100,000-700,000 Americans yearly, mostly seniors.
Pneumonia (PCV20 or PCV15+PPSV23)
When: Once after age 65, no booster needed.
Who: Everyone 65+. Some chronic-condition adults earlier.
Why: Pneumonia is a top killer of older adults.
Shingles (Shingrix)
When: 2 doses, 2-6 months apart.
Who: Adults 50+.
Why: Shingles affects 1 in 3 adults; pain can last years (post-herpetic neuralgia).
RSV
When: Once after age 60.
Who: Adults 60+, esp. with heart/lung conditions.
Why: New CDC recommendation. RSV hospitalizes 60,000+ seniors yearly.
COVID-19
When: Updated booster every fall.
Who: CDC recommends current vaccine for everyone, especially 65+.
Why: Cuts hospitalization risk significantly.
Tdap (Tetanus / Diphtheria / Pertussis)
When: Once for booster, then Td or Tdap every 10 years.
Who: All adults.
Why: Especially important if grandchildren are around.
Hepatitis A & B
When: If at risk.
Who: Travelers, healthcare workers, certain conditions.
Why: Talk to doctor about your specific situation.
MMR (Measles)
When: Born after 1957 and unsure? Get a booster.
Who: Travelers especially. Recent measles outbreaks.
Why: Measles is back. Protection is forever after vaccination.
Track your vaccinations
- Apple Health → Vaccinations — phones can scan the CDC card.
- Your state\'s immunization registry — most states have one. Search "[state] immunization registry".
- Pharmacy app (CVS, Walgreens) — they keep records of what they gave you.
- Photograph your CDC card — keep in a safe note.
Best time to get them
Annual flu shot in early October is the gold standard. Pair with COVID booster. Get the Shingrix series the year you turn 50. Get RSV after 60. Pneumonia at 65. Most pharmacies will check your record and recommend what\'s due.