Adults & adolescents

Immunization is not just for kids!

Childhood immunization does not provide lifelong immunity against some diseases such as tetanus (lockjaw) and diphtheria. Helper, or booster, shots are required to maintain immunity. As well, adults who were not adequately immunized as children may be at risk of infection from other vaccine-preventable diseases. Consult your health care provider to make sure you are protected.

Do you need any vaccines? Download this questionnaire (PDF: 52k), fill it out, and take it to your health care provider.

Keep a record of your immunizations!

Even adults whose immunization schedule is up to date may require vaccines before travelling outside Canada. Diseases rarely found in Canada are common in other parts of the world. Consult your health care provider or a travel health clinic 6 to 8 weeks before your trip to allow time for the vaccines to take effect.

Annual immunization is the best way to protect you from one of Canada's most common diseases — in fluenza. New strains of influenza circulate every year, requiring immunization every autumn.