Vaccination in Older Adults
Recommendations for adults 65 and older.
As the immune system ages (immunosenescence), older adults become more vulnerable to infections and may have reduced response to vaccines. Special formulations are available to enhance protection.
Recommended Vaccines 65+
- Influenza: High-dose or adjuvanted vaccines preferred
- COVID-19: Updated vaccines recommended
- Pneumococcal: PCV20 or PCV15 + PPSV23
- Shingrix: Two doses (shingles vaccine)
- Tdap/Td: Booster every 10 years
- RSV: Single dose for adults 60+
Immunosenescence
The aging immune system responds less robustly to vaccines. High-dose and adjuvanted vaccines are designed to produce stronger immune responses in older adults.