It's a common misperception that those shots you got as kid will provide immunity for a lifetime. But four times more adults die each year from vaccine-preventable illnesses compared to children. There are definitely vaccines all adults need.
Children have a strict vaccine schedule to follow, but you won't find reminder stickers and lollipops at your general practitioner's office.
"I think we do a much better job immunizing children in this country than adults," said Dr. Sharon Bergquist, Emory University School of Medicine.
A new survey by Walgreens finds nearly half of American adults are unaware of government-recommended vaccines for their age group.
"It really is an issue, I would say, of awareness and access to a healthcare professional who can help educate you," said Jeffrey Kang, senior vice president of health and wellness, Walgreens.
Most of us know about yearly flu shots. But experts say all adults over age sixty-five should get the pneumonia vaccine. One shot should last the rest of your life.
The itchy chicken pox you had as a kid can rear their ugly little heads again now that you're an adult in the form of extremely painful shingles, but studies show a zostavax booster shot can cut the chances of developing shingles by half, or at least reduce the severity of the disease.
"There are a million cases a year of shingles and its not just a rash. It's a very painful rash that can be debilitating," said Dr. Bergquist.
Doctors say the number one reason we're seeing an increase in whooping cough cases in children is because their parents haven't gotten their pertussis booster shot. It is added to the diphtheria and tetanus shot that's recommended every ten years.
"These disease are not rare diseases that you won't encounter. They will hit home," said Dr. Bergquist.
Some adults, like those with chronic conditions or who plan to travel abroad, need additional vaccines. Check with your doctor to find out what shots you may need.
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