Immunizations and older Americans ... a quick guide

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Get up-to-date information so you can help protect yourself

The saying, “A stitch in time saves nine,” is a smart way to approach many things in life.

One place where it’s especially true is keeping up to date with your vaccinations. And even more so if you’re over the age of 50 or at risk.

Fortunately, there are plenty of resources available to help you keep on track. And between Medicare Part B and private insurance options, your out-of-pocket costs could be minimal, if anything.

Why keeping up with vaccines is important

As we age, our immune systems tend to get weaker. That’s why it feels like the older we get, the harder it is to fight off infections. We’re also more likely to catch the flu, pneumonia and shingles.

People with chronic health conditions (such as diabetes or cancer) could be at higher risk, too.

Which vaccines should you get?

For people 19 and over, here are the general recommendations for immunizations. These are taken from the Centers for Disease Control. (CDC).

Always talk to your doctor or qualified medical professional about which vaccines are right for you.

All adults

COVID-19: The list of symptoms for COVID-19 is long, but sore throat, cough, fatigue and headache are common ones. Depending on your age and previous vaccination doses, the CDC provides specific guidance. Click here to see the recommendations.

Each year

Influenza: Flu shots should be part of everyone’s routine. For people 65 and older, it’s even more important. The CDC estimates that between 70%-85% of flu-related deaths in the U.S. occur among this age group.

Every 10 years

Tetanus, Diphtheria: The Td vaccine can prevent tetanus and diphtheria. Tetanus enters the body through cuts and wounds. Diphtheria is caused by person-to-person contact. The Tdap vaccine also protects against pertussis (whooping cough).

50 and over

Shingles: Common symptoms include burning, shooting pain, tingling, and/or itching, as well as a rash with fluid-filled blisters. Shingles are caused by the same virus as chickenpox.

60 and over

Hepatitis B: A serious liver infection, Hepatitis B usually only lasts less than six months (acute). However, chronic Hepatitis B can lead to a number of very serious complications. These include liver failure, liver cancer and cirrhosis.

RSV: Many RSV infections are mild and people tend to recover within a week or two. That said, it can be serious — particularly for older adults. That’s why the CDC recommends people over the age of 60 get vaccinated against it.

Age 65+

Pneumococcal: This virus can cause a surprisingly wide range of illnesses. Some are relatively mild like sinus or ear infections. Others, however, can be serious — such as blood infections, meningitis and pneumonia.

How to pay for vaccines

Depending on your situation, the costs for your immunizations could be covered by Medicare or your health plan. For example, Medicare Part B covers vaccines for the flu, COVID-19 and pneumococcal disease. It also covers the hepatitis B vaccine if you’re at increased risk for hepatitis B.

Medicare will also pay for vaccines directly related to the treatment of an injury or direct exposure to a disease or condition. Examples of this would be for a dog bite (rabies) or a wound from a dirty nail (tetanus).

Other recommended vaccines for older people are generally covered by Medicare drug coverage (Part D).