Your 2025 vaccine game plan: What the CDC wants every adult to know

In a time of emerging health risks and rapid advances in vaccine science, understanding and following the latest CDC vaccine recommendations is more vital than ever.

The 2025 Adult Immunization Schedule includes important updates every adult should know, especially if you’re over 50, have chronic conditions, or simply want to stay proactive about your health.

Why adult vaccination matters

When most of us think of vaccines, childhood immunizations come to mind. But diseases don’t only affect kids, and immunity doesn’t last forever. As we age, our natural defenses weaken, and our risk of complications from preventable diseases grows. Chronic illnesses, frequent travel, caregiving roles, and workplace exposure (like healthcare or teaching) can all make adults more vulnerable.

The CDC’s 2025 recommendations are designed to address these risks and simplify when and why adults should get vaccinated.

The big updates in 2025

Here are two major updates in the 2025 adult vaccine schedule that could affect millions:

1. COVID-19: One annual dose, two for seniors

While we’re no longer in the emergency phase of the pandemic, COVID-19 hasn’t disappeared. The virus continues to evolve, and immunity from vaccines or past infection can wane over time.

• All adults should receive at least one updated COVID-19 vaccine dose for the 2024–2025 season.
• Adults 65 and older are now advised to get two doses in the same season, given their higher risk for severe illness, hospitalization, or death.

Bottom line: Staying up to date each fall can significantly reduce your chances of serious COVID complications.

2. RSV vaccine expanded to more adults

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is not just a childhood illness. In recent years, RSV-related hospitalizations have surged among older adults. In response, the CDC has broadened access to RSV vaccines:

• Recommended for all adults aged 75 and older
• Recommended for adults aged 50–74 who have risk factors (like asthma, heart or lung disease, or weakened immune systems)
• Also recommended for pregnant individuals during RSV season (to help protect newborns in the first months of life)

Why this matters: RSV can lead to serious lung infections, especially in older or high-risk adults. The vaccine helps prevent complications like pneumonia and hospital stays.

Other vaccines are still on the schedule

In addition to the COVID-19 and RSV updates, the CDC continues to recommend several routine vaccinations for adults:

• Influenza (flu): Every year, ideally by October
• Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis): Once in adulthood, then a Td booster every 10 years
• Shingles (zoster): Two doses starting at age 50
• Pneumococcal: One or two doses starting at age 65, or earlier for high-risk groups
• Hepatitis A & B: For people with certain conditions or lifestyle risks
• HPV: Up to age 45, if not previously vaccinated

Take the guesswork out of prevention

Vaccines are not just for kids or travelers—they’re one of the simplest, safest ways to stay healthier as an adult. The CDC’s 2025 schedule reflects the most up-to-date science to help reduce your risk from serious diseases that are often overlooked.

If you’re unsure about what vaccines you need, talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Staying current on immunizations means fewer sick days, fewer complications, and greater peace of mind.

By Health Literacy Asia