[Adult immunisation: General points, hot topics and perspectives]

Area of Science:

• Immunology and Infectious Diseases
• Public Health and Preventive Medicine
• Vaccinology

Background:

• Adult vaccination primarily involves boosters for diphtheria, tetanus, polio, and pertussis, plus vaccines for chronic diseases like pneumococcal and influenza.
• Recommendations for adults over 65 include annual influenza shots and a live attenuated shingles vaccine.
• Immunocompromised adults face unique challenges, including reduced vaccine efficacy and risks from live attenuated vaccines, necessitating tailored vaccination strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current adult vaccination guidelines, focusing on immunocompetent and immunocompromised populations.
• To highlight challenges in vaccinating immunocompromised individuals and strategies for their protection.
• To discuss future directions in vaccinology, including new vaccine development and addressing vaccine hesitancy.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing vaccination guidelines and recommendations for adult populations.
• Analysis of challenges and considerations for vaccinating immunocompromised individuals.
• Exploration of emerging trends in vaccinology and public health concerns regarding vaccine hesitancy.

Main Results:

• Specific vaccine recommendations vary based on age, chronic conditions, and immune status.
• Vaccination of close contacts of immunocompromised individuals is crucial.
• Ongoing research focuses on vaccines for healthcare-associated infections, maternal vaccination, and improved vaccine technologies.

Conclusions:

• Tailored vaccination strategies are essential for both immunocompetent and immunocompromised adults.
• Addressing vaccine hesitancy and advancing vaccine development are critical for public health.
• Continued research and updated guidelines are necessary to optimize adult immunization programs.