It is important to stay up to date with recommended vaccinations to protect yourself and your loved ones from preventable diseases. Vaccines help train your immune system to fight pathogens, such as viruses or bacteria, by stimulating the production of antibodies that provide protection from future infections. Listed below are the routine vaccinations recommended for adults. Please consult your doctor if you have specific questions about your immunization status or would like to schedule vaccinations.
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COVID-19
The CDC recommends the updated 2025–2026 COVID-19 vaccine for adults using a shared clinical decision-making approach. Adults 65 and older should receive two doses of the seasonal vaccine for the strongest protection against severe illness. For adults under 65, including those who are pregnant or immunocompromised, vaccination decisions should be made with their physician based on individual risk factors. COVID-19 can still cause symptoms ranging from mild congestion to severe breathing difficulties, and immunity from past infection or older vaccines decreases over time, making vaccination an important tool for reducing hospitalization and serious outcomes. In addition, BMA recommends receiving a spring COVID booster between March and May, particularly for patients at highest risk of severe disease, including adults ≥65, those with moderate or severe immunocompromise, individuals with high-risk medical conditions (such as heart disease, diabetes, or chronic lung disease), and residents of long-term care facilities. Please talk with your BMA physician about the best COVID-19 vaccination plan for you.
Flu
The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older receive a seasonal flu vaccine each year. The best time to get vaccinated is September or October, before flu activity increases. Because flu viruses change from year to year, vaccine formulations are reviewed and updated annually by the CDC and FDA. Getting a yearly flu shot helps prevent millions of flu‑related medical visits and reduces the risk of serious complications and hospitalization. Our practice offers Flublok, a recombinant, egg‑free, latex‑free, preservative‑free influenza vaccine that is approved for people 18 years of age and older and is one of the CDC‑preferred options for older adults.
MMR
The MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine is recommended for adults born in or after 1957 who do not have documented immunity, either through written vaccination records or a positive antibody test. Most adults need one dose, while certain higher‑risk groups, such as healthcare workers, college students, and international travelers, should receive two doses at least 28 days apart. Adults born before 1957 are generally presumed immune but may be advised to confirm immunity if they work in healthcare settings. The MMR vaccine should not be given during pregnancy and should be administered at least one month before conception if needed. Also, it is a live vaccine and should not be given to people who are immunocompromised. Individuals who already have two documented MMR doses or a positive immunity titer do not require additional vaccination.
Pneumococcal
Pneumococcal vaccines help protect against serious infections like pneumococcal pneumonia and bloodstream infections. The CDC now recommends pneumococcal vaccination for all adults age 50 and older, as well as for adults age 19–49 with certain medical conditions or risk factors. Several vaccines are available, including Capvaxive (PCV21), which offers broad protection and is the pneumococcal vaccine currently offered at our practice. Please speak with your physician to determine which pneumococcal vaccine is most appropriate for you.
RSV
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can cause cold‑like symptoms such as runny nose, cough, and wheezing, and may lead to more serious illness in older adults and those with chronic health conditions. The CDC now recommends a single RSV vaccine dose for all adults age 75 and older, as well as for adults age 50–74 who are at increased risk of severe RSV illness. RSV vaccination is not an annual vaccine. Anyone who has already received one dose is considered fully vaccinated and should not get an additional dose at this time. The best time to receive the RSV vaccine is late summer to early fall, before RSV season begins.
Shingrix
Shingrix is the CDC‑recommended vaccine for preventing shingles, a painful rash caused by reactivation of the varicella‑zoster virus. About 1 in 3 adults will develop shingles in their lifetime, and the risk increases with age. The CDC recommends two doses of Shingrix for all adults 50 and older, spaced 2–6 months apart, and for adults 19 and older with weakened immune systems. Staying up‑to‑date with vaccination is the most effective way to reduce the risk of shingles and long‑term nerve pain that can follow.
Tdap
The Tdap vaccine protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (“whooping cough”) and is recommended for everyone age 7 and older. Adults who have never received Tdap should get one dose, followed by a booster every 10 years, or sooner if they experience a deep or dirty wound. Pregnant women should receive one Tdap dose during each pregnancy to protect their newborn. Pertussis can cause violent coughing spells and is especially dangerous for infants, who remain at the highest risk of severe illness. Staying up to date on Tdap vaccination is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your family.
Travel Vaccines
Please consult your provider if you are traveling somewhere that may require additional vaccinations so they can help you stay safe and healthy while abroad.