Update on adult immunizations

The past few years have seen numerous additions and modifications to the current immunization schedules. Starting with the 2010 to 2011 influenza season, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have recommended universal annual influenza vaccination for all persons without a contraindication who are 6 months of age and older, including healthy persons aged 19 to 49 years. Hepatitis B vaccination is now recommended for all susceptible diabetics ≤60 years of age. One dose of tetanus toxoid, reduced diphtheria toxoid, and acellular pertussis vaccine, adsorbed, is recommended to replace one tetanus and diphtheria toxoids adsorbed (adult) vaccination for all adults, including those 65 years of age or older, who are anticipating contact with infants and unvaccinated pregnant women (preferably during the second or third trimester). All adult vaccines remain underused. This article will summarize the most recent changes in the adult immunization recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.