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You can help protect yourself and others against seasonal flu and other vaccine-preventable diseases by getting immunized. Consider your lifestyle and location when deciding whether to get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B. There is no vaccine yet for hepatitis C.

Other vaccines to consider

Pneumococcal: Older people and those with certain medical conditions are most susceptible to pneumonia. People under 65 will need a booster shot when they reach 65 if more than five years have passed since the initial dose.

Hepatitis A:  Recommended for those who travel to other countries or live in a U.S. community with high rates of hepatitis A; or who have chronic liver disease, engage in male-to-male sex, or inject drugs.

Hepatitis B: More contagious than HIV, hepatitis B is the type of hepatitis most often spread through sexual contact. It can also be passed from an infected mother to newborn, the sharing of needles or personal items with an infected person, and other contact involving bodily fluids. A vaccine can prevent the disease.

Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR):  People born after 1956 and all women of childbearing age who have not had these diseases or been vaccinated against them need to get the shots to be protected.

Chickenpox (varicella):   Protection is necessary for those born in the U.S. after 1966 and have not had this disease and have not been vaccinated. Adults are at a far greater risk of complications.

Shingles (herpes zoster):  Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. People who are over the age of 60 may receive a single dose of the shingles vaccine. Consult with your physician first.

Tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis: Booster doses of tetanus-diptheria (Td) are needed at 10-year intervals. In place of the Td booster, people age 19-64 and those 65 and older who are in contact with infants should get a one-time dose of tetanus-diptheria-pertussis (Tdap) to also protect against whooping cough.

Vaccines for international travelers:  Many Veterans and other Americans travel abroad and are likely exposed to diseases common in those countries.

Go to Vaccines.gov to learn more.