Adult Immunizations
Why Should You Get Immunizations?
Vaccines aren’t just for children; they help adults stay healthy too. The protection offered by some vaccines only lasts for a certain amount of time. It is important to receive booster doses in adulthood to keep you and those around you safe and healthy!
As an adult you are eligible to receive the following vaccines free:
- Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis (once in adulthood)
- Tetanus and Diphtheria (every 10 years)
- Influenza (every year in the Fall)
- Pneumococcal (aged 65 years+)
- Shingles (aged 65–70 years)
- COVID-19 (booster doses spring and fall)
Immunizations are an important part of your health history. It is your responsibility to keep your immunization record up to date and stored safely in case you need it in the future.
There are apps to help you keep track;
- CANImmunize App – is an online tool where you can enter your previous immunizations and have prompts to remind you when you are due for future immunizations
When Will I Need My Immunization Record?
These are potential situations where you may need your immunization record:
- College, University or other post-secondary institutions
- Future employment
- International Travel
- Starting with a new Health Care Provider
Where Can I Find My Immunization Records?
You can find your immunization records:
- Previous Health Care Providers:
- Including visits to Public Health, and Hospital Emergency Departments.
- If your Health Care Provider has retired you may be able to get your record from the College of Physicians and Surgeons at 1-800-268-7096. A fee may apply.
- At home
- Schools, colleges, universities or other post-secondary institutions
- Previous Employers
What If I Can’t Find My Immunization Records?
An immunization record helps Health Care Providers know exactly what vaccines you have had in the past. In some cases, blood work can help determine if you’re immune to certain diseases. For other diseases, you may need to repeat some of your immunizations. Although this may be inconvenient, it is not harmful to receive extra doses of a vaccine. Your Health Care Provider can recommend what is best for you.
Adverse Reactions
If you experience an adverse reaction following immunization, (symptoms requiring medical attention) please contact your Health Care Provider or go to the nearest emergency department. Your Health Care Provider will complete an Adverse Event Following Immunization (AEFI) report and send it to the Health Unit for entry into the provincial data base. This helps with ongoing monitoring that is done to ensure vaccine safety.