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Why your adult immunization status matters more than you think

G.E.H.A | March 26, 2026

It’s important to stay up to date because some vaccines lose effectiveness over time.

Your immunity changes over time

When you hear the word "vaccines," you might think of childhood doctor visits or school requirements. Protection from vaccine-preventable diseases doesn’t stop when you grow up. Staying up to date on your adult immunizations is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your long-term health.

Protection can fade, new disease strains can emerge, and your health needs may change as you age. If you develop a chronic condition or your immune system becomes weaker, infections that once seemed minor can become more serious.

Keeping your vaccines current helps lower your risk of severe illness and hospitalization. It can also reduce complications that can interrupt your work, family life and overall well-being.

Vaccines adults commonly miss

Many adults are surprised to learn they’re not fully protected. Some of the most commonly missed vaccines include:

  • Tdap/Td (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis): A booster is recommended every 10 years, but many adults go far longer without one
  • Influenza (flu): An annual flu shot reduces your risk of serious illness, especially if you’re older or have a chronic condition
  • Shingles (zoster): Adults age 50 and older are at higher risk — even if they had chickenpox as a child
  • Pneumococcal vaccines: Important for adults 65+ and for those with certain medical conditions
  • COVID-19: Staying up to date helps protect you from severe disease
  • HPV: Recommended for many adults who were not vaccinated earlier in life

Vaccine recommendations depend on your age, medical history, lifestyle, work environment and travel plans. Your needs may be different from someone else’s. Please speak to your health care provider about which vaccines are right for you.

G.E.H.A covers 100% of many adult vaccines when received as preventive care, including flu, Tdap, MMR, HPV, COVID-19, shingles (zoster) and pneumococcal vaccines — when you use in-network providers.

Why adults often fall behind

Falling behind on vaccines is common and understandable. Some reasons include:

  • Not realizing boosters or new vaccines are needed
  • Skipping routine checkups when you feel healthy
  • Assuming vaccines are only for children
  • Missing or incomplete vaccination records

Unfortunately, this can lead to preventable illnesses that could have been avoided with timely vaccination.

Protection that goes beyond you

When you stay vaccinated, you’re not just protecting yourself, you’re helping protect the people around you. As a parent, caregiver, coworker or community member, your immunizations help:

  • Reduce the spread of infectious diseases
  • Protect vulnerable individuals like infants and older adults
  • Prevent outbreaks at work and in the community
  • Lower health care costs tied to preventable illness

How to check your immunization status

If you’re not sure what vaccines you’ve had, you’re not alone. You can start by:

  1. Reviewing any personal immunization records you have
  2. Asking your primary care provider to review your status at your next visit and request a copy of all vaccinations for your records
  3. Checking state or local immunization registries, if available
  4. Talking with your provider about risk factors such as age, chronic conditions, pregnancy, travel, or job-related exposure

Your provider can help you create a personalized vaccination plan based on current guidelines.

Make immunization part of your routine care

Just like blood pressure or cholesterol checks, your immunization status should be reviewed regularly. Many vaccines are covered by insurance and available at pharmacies, clinics and community health centers making it easier than ever to stay protected.

Take a proactive approach today

Staying up to date on recommended vaccines is an important part of protecting your health at every stage of life. By reviewing your immunization status regularly and talking with your primary care provider, you can take proactive steps to support your long-term well-being.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Recommended Vaccinations for Adults

 

The information contained herein is for informational and educational purposes only. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice, and if you have questions regarding a medical condition, regimen or treatment you should always seek the advice of a qualified health care provider. Never disregard or delay seeking medical advice from a qualified medical professional because of information you have read herein.

This is a brief description of the features of Government Employees Health Association, Inc.'s health plans. Please read the G.E.H.A Federal brochures, which are available at geha.com/PlanBrochure. All benefits are subject to the definitions, limitations, and exclusions set forth in the Federal brochure.