Sick of hearing about vaccinations? That’s understandable! After such a big focus on immunisations during the pandemic, the idea of more shots might seem pretty unappealing.
But if we want to stay healthy and well as we age, we need to stay on top of the recommended list of shots – against loads of different diseases, not just COVID.
The good news is the pandemic has made people better at rolling up their sleeves for the sake of their health, says GP Dr Aadhil Aziz, spokesperson for the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners.
“We all had this massive intensive education on how vaccines work, and that has driven up people coming in and asking us about vaccines in general,” he explains.
“In fact, I personally feel that there’s been an uptick in people’s understanding of how vaccines work and their importance.”
While that’s generally a good thing, there’s still a lot of confusion about exactly what vaccines adults need, he stresses. As we age, vaccination becomes more important – even if you were fully vaccinated as a child.
“As you get older, your immune system – just like every other part of your body – starts to get a little bit tired and it may not be as effective as it once used to be,” Dr Aziz explains.
“And on top of that, your immune system starts to forget what viruses it used to recognise – and this is how boosting the body’s immune system with vaccinations works.”
The specific vaccines you need depend on your health, age, lifestyle and occupation (with some Australian states and territories even having different guidelines), so the following information is very general. Make sure you see your GP for personalised vaccine advice.
For all adults
The flu shot and COVID boosters (free for everyone) are highly recommended for all adults. The flu shot is free for at-risk groups, such as pregnant women, older people or those who are considered immunocompromised.
If you suspect you missed out on the standard childhood vaccines – including measles, mumps, rubella, tetanus, hepatitis B and diphtheria – ask your GP about booster shots. It’s never too late to get protection from these diseases.
If you’re pregnant
If you’ve got a baby on board, make sure you get vaccinated against whooping cough (also called pertussis) and the flu – both are free.
If you’re around kids
Do you have young children or grandkids? Work in the childcare sector? You’ll need a vaccination for whooping cough, a disease that can cause serious problems (and even death) in babies.
“If you’re going to be spending time with a child, then you’re putting that child at risk,” Dr Aziz says. “We protect that child by immunising ourselves, thereby protecting the child, who still hasn’t developed their immune system fully.”
If you’re an Indigenous person
If you’re of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent, your annual flu shot is free, and once over 50 you’re eligible for a free pneumococcal vaccine. In New Zealand, the flu shot is free for Maori and Pacific people over 55.
If you’re over 50
After the age of 50, Dr Aziz recommends that you talk to your doctor about these vaccines. While not all are free, they’re definitely worth considering:
- Pneumococcal (free after age 70
- Meningococcal
- Shingles (also called herpes zoster – free between 70 and 79)
- Haemophilus influenzae type B (also called Hib)
- Tetanus
- Whooping cough
- Flu (every year – free after 65)
- COVID booster
If you’re travelling overseas
Many countries have much higher rates of illnesses that are not as common in Australia or NZ, such as typhoid, a bacterial infection present in places like Asia. See your doctor six to 12 weeks before you travel overseas to make sure you have time for the vaccines recommended for your destination.
Next steps
Still feeling confused? That’s understandable – there’s so much to process! If you have questions, see your GP. They will tell you what you need to feel protected.
Did you know the risk of serious illness from COVID-19 increases with age, especially over 70? Talk to your doctor to learn more. Visit planforcovid.com.au
