How Often Do You Need Immunizations?

The COVID-19 pandemic threw the spotlight on vaccines, sparking curiosity, debates, and plenty of misinformation. While vaccines are nothing new, the pandemic made us all a little more aware of what they are and why they're essential.

With so many vaccines available, and each having its schedule, it’s easy to get confused about which ones you need and when. Whether you’re a parent keeping track of your kids’ shots or an adult wondering if you’re up to date, understanding immunizations is key to staying healthy.

In this brief article brought to you by Southern Maryland Medical Group, we offer some introductory information on immunizations and how often to get them. The information on this page is strictly for educational purposes. It is always advisable to consult a licensed primary care physician for medical advice.

What exactly are vaccines?

Vaccines are biological preparations that help protect us from infectious diseases. They work by triggering our immune systems to recognize and fight off viruses or bacteria. Think of them like a training session for your immune system so your body is ready to tackle danger when the real thing shows up.

Taking vaccines not only protects ourselves but also those around us by creating what’s known as herd immunity. This is crucial for preventing outbreaks and protecting people who can’t get vaccinated, such as infants or those with certain medical conditions.

Common vaccines and how often to get them

Here are some of the most common vaccines recommended for both children and adults in the United States, based on guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis)

Let’s start with tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (also known as Tdap). Tetanus causes painful muscle stiffness; diphtheria can block your airway, and pertussis (whooping cough) can lead to severe coughing fits.

Children get the Tdap vaccine at ages 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, and again between 15-18 months and 4-6 years old. Adults get a Td booster every 10 years to stay protected. Pregnant women are recommended to get the Tdap vaccine during each pregnancy to protect their newborn from whooping cough.

MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella)

Measles can lead to pneumonia and brain swelling, mumps can cause hearing loss, and rubella is especially dangerous during pregnancy. Children get two doses, one at 12-15 months and another between 4-6 years old.

Influenza (Flu)

The flu may seem like a seasonal inconvenience, but it can lead to serious complications in the elderly, young children, and those with chronic illnesses.

The flu vaccine is an annual shot and recommended for everyone six months and older. Each year’s shot is updated to protect against the most common strains circulating that flu season.

Hepatitis A and B

Hepatitis A spreads through contaminated food and water while hepatitis B spreads through blood or other bodily fluids. Both viruses can cause serious liver damage.

Hepatitis A is given in two doses typically starting at 12 months for children. Hepatitis B is given in three or four doses, starting at birth. Adults who didn’t receive these vaccines as children may also benefit from catching up.

Varicella (Chickenpox)

Chickenpox may sound like a mild disease, but it can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia or brain inflammation. Children get two doses: the first between 12-15 months and the second between 4-6 years old.

Staying up to date on immunizations

It’s easy to lose track of which vaccines you’ve had, but a good rule of thumb is to check in with your doctor at least once a year to review your immunization history. Check with your healthcare provider about vaccines you might need if you’re traveling abroad, especially to areas where diseases like yellow fever or typhoid are common.

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