Official State of Rhode Island website

State of Rhode Island Department of Health

Immunization Information for Adults

Vaccines for Adults

As we age, our bodies may not fight off illness as effectively. Older adults, especially those age 65 or older, are at higher risk for serious diseases like flu, COVID-19, RSV, and pneumonia. 

Vaccines are a safe and effective way to protect against these illnesses, which can lead to hospitalization or even death. Keeping your vaccinations up to date is essential. The vaccines you need depend on your age, health, and lifestyle, such as your job or travel plans.

Recommended Vaccines

  • Flu vaccine: Get this vaccine every year in the fall. If you are age 65 or older, ask about the enhanced flu vaccine.
  • COVID-19 vaccine: Everyone age 6 months or older should get the latest version of this vaccine. If you are immunocompromised or age 65 or older, you may be eligible for additional doses. Talk to your healthcare professional to learn more.
  • Pneumonia vaccine: This vaccine protects against serious bacterial infections, including pneumonia. Check with your healthcare professional to find out when to get vaccinated.
  • Shingles vaccine: Adults age 50 and older should get 2 doses of this vaccine 2-6 months apart to protect against shingles.
  • Tdap vaccine: A one-time dose of this vaccine protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough. You may need a booster every 10 years.
  • RSV vaccine: One dose of this vaccine protects against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). It's recommended for all people age 75 and older and for those age 60-74 at higher risk.
  • HPV vaccine: Catch-up vaccination is recommended for those not vaccinated through age 26 and for some adults age 27-45 after discussion with their healthcare professional.
  • Hepatitis B vaccine: This vaccine is recommended for all adults younger than age 60 and for adults age 60+ with known risk factors.

You may also need other vaccines depending on your personal health needs and lifestyle. It's important to talk to your healthcare professional to ensure you're fully protected.

To Get Vaccinated

  • Visit your healthcare professional or local pharmacy.
  • If you don’t have a healthcare professional, find information on free or low-cost vaccination clinics at health.ri.gov/immunization.
  • Medicare coverage: Most vaccines are covered by Medicare at no cost to you. Check with Medicare or your Advantage Plan for details at medicare.gov.
  • Getting multiple vaccines: You can get many vaccines at the same time. Ask your healthcare professional or pharmacist for more information.

Special Populations

Certain groups may need additional vaccines or extra care when it comes to immunization. These include:

  • Pregnant people: Some vaccines are recommended during pregnancy, such as the flu and Tdap vaccines. Talk to your healthcare professional to make sure you're getting the right vaccines.
  • People who use drugs: People who use drugs face additional risks of serious illness from viral infections such as flu, COVID-19, RSV, hepatitis A, and hepatitis B.
  • People with disabilities: People with disabilities may have different vaccine needs based on their health conditions. Talk to your healthcare professional to create a vaccination plan that’s right for you.
  • Immunocompromised people: People with weakened immune systems due to conditions like cancer treatments or organ transplants may need specialized vaccines or altered schedules to ensure maximum protection.
  • International travelers: Depending on their destination, people traveling abroad may require additional vaccines to protect against region-specific diseases and ensure safe travel.