Adult
View the relevant vaccination information for adults.
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What vaccinations are recommended for older adults?
The Australian Government recommendations for adults are:
| Disease | Information | Cost |
| Pneumococcal disease | A single dose for adults aged 70 years and over | Free to those eligible on the National Immunisation Program |
| Shingles (Herpes zoster) | A single dose for people aged 70 years of age, OR if you are over 70 and have not yet been vaccinated, a single catch-up dose is available for those aged between 71 to 79 year olds until 31 October 2023 | Free to those eligible on the National Immunisation Program |
| Influenza |
An annual dose is recommended for all older adults High-immunogenicity influenza vaccines are available to adults over 60 years of age. Adults 60-64 years of age may choose to receive a standard flu vaccine*, or a high-immunogenicity flu vaccine on private prescription. |
Free to those eligible on the National Immunisation Program. A fee may apply to adults 60-64 years of age. |
| Tetanus | A booster dose of a tetanus-containing vaccine is recommended for adults aged 50 years old or over who have not received a tetanus- containing vaccine in the past 10 years (but have previously completed a primary course of 3 doses) | A fee may apply |
| Whooping cough (pertussis) | A single booster dose of a whooping cough vaccine is recommended for adults aged 65 years old or more who have not been vaccinated in the past 10 years | A fee may apply |
*Unadjuvanted standard dose vaccine.
Plus, if you are travelling, speak with your doctor before you go to ensure your vaccinations are up-to-date and that you have received the recommended vaccinations specific for the regions you are travelling to.
Can you still get influenza after getting the influenza shot?
Yes, however the severity of the symptoms will be less than if you had not received the vaccine. In healthy people, the vaccine provides a good level of coverage against influenza, which usually starts 2 weeks after vaccination.
In those who do contract influenza even after having the vaccination, the symptoms tend to be less severe and people are less at risk of developing more serious complications, which may lead to hospitalisations or even death.
