Vaccination is one of man's most beneficial inventions, which helps protect against various illnesses. It is not just for children; rather, many vaccines require booster shots in adulthood to maintain immunity. Over time, the protection provided by childhood vaccinations can wane, making future boosters crucial for preventing serious diseases.
In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Joydeep Ghosh, Internal Medicine Specialist, Fortis Hospital, Anandapur, explains which vaccines require boosters, why immunity declines, and how adults can stay up to date.
Also Read: 10 Serious Diseases Childhood Vaccines can Prevent
Childhood Vaccines That Require Booster Shots In Adulthood
Several vaccines administered in childhood require periodic boosters to maintain immunity:
Tdap/Td Vaccine: A booster shot is recommended every 10 years to protect against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough).
MMR Vaccine (Measles, Mumps, Rubella): Adults who lack immunity may need a booster dose.
Influenza (Flu) Vaccine: Annual flu vaccination is recommended for all adults, particularly those with chronic health conditions or weakened immune systems.
Pneumococcal Vaccine: Recommended for older adults and individuals with certain medical conditions.
Shingles Vaccine: Advised for adults over 50 to prevent shingles and related complications.
COVID-19 Vaccine: Booster shots are recommended for certain populations, such as individuals aged 65 and older, to maintain protection against COVID-19.
Why Does Immunity Wane Over Time?
According to Dr Ghosh, immunity from childhood vaccinations can wane over time due to several factors. He explains that a natural decrease in immune response occurs as part of the body's ageing process. Antibodies produced after vaccination have a limited half-life, lasting from months to years, and while immunological memory cells remain, their ability to combat pathogens may weaken over time.
Additionally, repeated exposure to pathogens can contribute to a gradual reduction in immunity. Ageing also impacts the immune system, leading to decreased efficiency in fighting infections.
Furthermore, vaccine-specific factors such as the type of vaccine, its formulation, and the method of administration play a role in determining how long immunity lasts.
Also Read: When Can You Take Covid-19 Booster Shot, Dos and Donts After Taking It
How Can Adults Check If They Need Vaccine Boosters?
Here’s how adults can check if they need vaccine boosters or not:
- Talk to parents or caregivers about vaccination records; ask if they have records of childhood vaccinations.
- Check with the healthcare professional's office for vaccination records.
- Check with healthcare organisations where care was received as a child.
- Check with schools or employers that require vaccinations.
- Contact the state health department to see if adult immunisations are registered.
Conclusion
Childhood vaccinations are extremely important. However, it is as important to get booster shots for certain vaccinations as immunity from the previous vaccination can wane over time. Adults should stay informed about their vaccination status and consult healthcare providers to determine whether they need booster doses. Regular immunisation not only protects individual health but also helps prevent the spread of infectious diseases within communities.