Immunizations are not just for children. Adults also need to keep up to date with recommended immunizations. Under-immunized adults are at risk for disease and passing infections on to others.
In general adults need a tetanus and diphtheria booster every ten years and flu shot every year. The types of vaccines recommended in a workplace setting will depend on the individual’s health status, occupational risks, lifestyle and prior immunity. Immunizations required will also depend on what immunizations a person received as a child.
Employers are encouraged to have policies in place about which vaccines their staff are required to have based on the workplace and types of risks for employees. Immunization recommendations can be found in the most current version of the Canadian Immunization Guide.
It may be necessary for some workplaces to have copies of immunization records be kept by both the employee and employer. It is important to encourage and manage up to date immunization records in case of an outbreak of disease either in the workplace or community. In order to maintain a lifetime of protection encourage employees to speak with their health care provider or call Your Health Connection to inquire about what immunizations they may need.
New! Adult Immunization Fact Sheet
The top ten reasons to ask about adult immunization
http://www.immunize.cpha.ca/uploads/posters/general/10reasons_e.pdf
For more information about adult immunization
CCIAP - Canadian Coalition for Immunization Awareness and Promotion - Adults & adolescents
