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Information for Adults 65 Years and Older

COVID-19 Guidance and Resources

For information on ways to protect adults 65 years and older during the COVID-19 pandemic, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) COVID-19Information for Older Adults.

Why Are Immunizations Important for Adults 65 Years and Older?

Similar to infants, adolescents, and young adults, adults 65 years and older are also at risk for contracting vaccine-preventable diseases.  As we get older, our immune systems tend to weaken over time, putting us at higher risk for infectious diseases and severe complications from illness.

Additionally, we are more likely to suffer from chronic illnesses, such as heart disease or diabetes, which make us more vulnerable to infectious diseases and possible health complications as a result. Getting the recommended immunizations is essential to protecting the wellbeing of adults 65 years and older.

To view the most current adult vaccination recommendations, view the CDC’s Easy-to-Read Immunization Schedule for Adults

Protect Yourself While Protecting Others

You are not just protecting yourself when you choose to get vaccinated, but you are also protecting your loved ones and fellow community members. In addition to becoming severely ill and risking complications from vaccine preventable diseases, infected adults risk spreading the diseases to others, such as individuals with weakened immune systems and infants who are too young to be vaccinated. It is vital for adults 65 years and older to keep up to date on vaccinations to prevent infection with VPDs.

For more information on recommendations for your specific immunization needs, reach out and speak with your healthcare provider.

Recommended Vaccines for Individuals 65 Years and Older1:        

  • Influenza (Flu)
  • Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis ( Td/Tdap)
  • Shingles (Zoster)
  • Pneumococcal polysaccharide (PPV23)
  • Pneumococcal conjugate (PCV13)
Footnotes: 1. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/adults/rec-vac/index.html
 

How to Pay for Your Vaccines

Uninsured Patients
If you do not have health insurance, you are eligible to receive adult vaccines at little or no cost as part of the Adult Safety Net (ASN) Program.

Medicare Patients  

  • Part B will cover influenza (flu), pneumococcal (PPSV13& PCV13), hepatitis B vaccines and vaccines related to treatment or exposure of a disease, such as rabies or tetanus.
  • Part D & Advantage Plan Part C may cover the cost of some vaccines.

Other Options
Medicaid may also cover some adult immunizations.

For more information:

Stay on Schedule with ImmTrac2

ImmTrac2is a free, secure online system from DSHS that consolidates and stores your immunization records. Talk to your provider or local health department about how to register in ImmTrac2

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