Vaccines are one of the most important tools in preventing disease and protecting public health. The U.S. vaccine schedule, recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), is carefully designed to provide protection when individuals are most vulnerable to certain diseases.
Whether you're a parent managing your child’s wellness check-ups or an adult wondering when to get boosters, understanding the vaccine schedule can help you stay on top of your health. Here's a breakdown of when to get immunized, why timing matters, and what to expect at each stage of life.
Why Vaccine Timing Is Important
When we consider the vaccine schedule, we need to understand that many studies have gone into creating this. Vaccines are timed to protect before exposure to dangerous diseases, maximize immunity when the body is most responsive, and prevent the spread of infectious diseases in communities. Often our vaccinations are considerate of helping reduce illness within the whole community, not just our own households. Delaying vaccines can leave children and adults at risk of preventable illness. Following the recommended schedule ensures optimal protection.
Key Vaccines by Age Group
Let’s look at vaccines by different phases of life:
For infants and toddlers (birth to 2 years), this is a critical period for building foundational immunity. Several vaccines are given in multiple doses for lasting protection. Suggested immunizations include:
Hepatitis B: Given at birth, 1–2 months, and 6–18 months
DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis): 5-dose series starting at 2 months
IPV (Polio): 4-dose series beginning at 2 months
Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b) and PCV13 (Pneumococcal): Both protect against severe infections like meningitis
Rotavirus: Oral vaccine given at 2 and 4 months
MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) and Varicella (Chickenpox): Typically given at 12–15 months
Hepatitis A: First dose at 12 months, second at least 6 months later
Preschool and School-Age Children (4–6 years old) have a list of booster doses to reinforce early vaccinations before starting school. These include:
DTaP
IPV (Polio)
MMR
Varicella
Preteens and teens (11-18 years old) are the next category of immunizations. This age group gets additional protection against illnesses that become more common or severe in adolescence. The recommended shots for this age group are:
Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis) booster
HPV (Human Papillomavirus): Series of 2 or 3 doses starting at age 11–12
Meningococcal conjugate: Protects against meningitis; booster at 16
Adults ages 19-64 years old may need catch-up vaccinations or boosters such as:
Tdap or Td: Booster every 10 years
COVID-19: As recommended based on current guidance
HPV: Up to age 26 (and sometimes beyond)
MMR and Varicella: If not previously immunized
Hepatitis A and B: For at-risk individuals or those not immunized
For senior adults (age 65+), immunity can weaken with age, so there is recommended additional protection. This includes:
Pneumococcal vaccines: PCV20 or PCV15 + PPSV23
Shingles (Recombinant Zoster Vaccine): Two doses starting at age 50
COVID-19: Based on latest CDC guidance
Tdap or Td: Every 10 years
Seasonal & Special Circumstance Vaccines
Once you’ve reached 6 months of age, influenza vaccine is recommended each fall. Ideally you want to receive this vaccine by October for maximum protection. Although this vaccine doesn’t always prevent sickness, it is known to reduce the severity of illness.
For those travelling, there are very specific vaccines recommended for certain types of the world. Yellow fever, typhoid, and others may be recommended depending on destination.
Pregnant women often have a unique health plan to ensure protection of their and their baby’s health. An example of this would be the recommendation to take the Tdap vaccine during the third trimester.
If you are needing vaccines or boosters, your local pharmacy is a great resource. You can quickly get a shot when running an errand or picking up a prescription.
College Park Pharmacy, Howard’s Pharmacy, Mooney’s Pharmacy, P&S Pharmacy, Mossy Creek Pharmacy, and Colonial Heights Pharmacy are independent pharmacy businesses in East Tennessee that pride themselves in customer service. We want to gain your trust as part of your medical team and build a relationship with you. Our team members who serve as Community Health Workers can point you toward available resources. We strive to put patients first and help you improve your overall health. Please come by and see us.
