By Total Wellness Healthcare Clinic
Staying current on vaccinations isn’t just for kids—adults need protection too. Vaccines play a vital role in preventing serious diseases, protecting those around you, and supporting lifelong health. At Total Wellness Healthcare Clinic, we believe prevention is the foundation of wellness, and up-to-date immunizations are key to that mission.
Why Adult Vaccines Matter
Many adults mistakenly think they’re fully protected because they received vaccines as children. In reality, immunity can fade, and new vaccines are developed to combat emerging health threats. Staying current helps prevent serious illnesses such as pneumonia, shingles, and seasonal flu, while also reducing the risk of transmitting disease to infants, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.
Essential Vaccines for Adults
- Influenza (Flu): Recommended annually for everyone 6 months and older.
- COVID-19: Stay updated with current boosters as advised by the CDC.
- Tdap/Td (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis): Tdap once as an adult, then Td or Tdap every 10 years.
- Shingles (Herpes Zoster): Two-dose Shingrix vaccine for adults 50 and older, even if you’ve had shingles before.
- Pneumococcal (Pneumonia): Recommended for adults 65+ and younger adults with certain health conditions.
- HPV: For adults up to age 26 (and some up to age 45, depending on risk factors).
- Hepatitis A & B: For adults who haven’t completed the series or who are at risk.
- MMR & Varicella (Measles, Mumps, Rubella / Chickenpox): For those without documented immunity.
Building a Personalized Vaccine Plan
At Total Wellness Healthcare Clinic, we review your medical history, travel plans, and lifestyle to create a personalized vaccine schedule. Whether you need a booster, a first-time series, or guidance for international travel, we’re here to ensure you stay protected.
Q&A: Your Vaccine Questions Answered
Q: I’m healthy and rarely get sick. Do I really need vaccines?
A: Yes. Many diseases are highly contagious or cause complications even in healthy adults. Vaccines provide critical protection for you and those around you.
Q: Can vaccines give me the disease they protect against?
A: No. Most vaccines use inactivated viruses or small protein fragments that cannot cause infection.
Q: Are adult vaccines covered by insurance?
A: Most preventive vaccines are covered under the Affordable Care Act and by many private insurance plans. We can help you review your coverage.
Q: I had chickenpox as a child. Do I still need the shingles vaccine?
A: Yes. Anyone who has had chickenpox is at risk for shingles later in life. The Shingrix vaccine reduces that risk significantly.
Q: What if I can’t remember which vaccines I’ve had?
A: We can review your records, perform blood tests if needed, and recommend appropriate catch-up vaccines.
Take the Next Step
Protecting your health is easier than you think. Schedule a vaccine consultation today and keep your immunizations up to date.
Total Wellness Healthcare Clinic
Upper Marlboro Office
9500 Marlboro Pike, Suite 12
Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
Phone: (301) 494-1006
Waldorf Office
605 Post Office Rd, Ste 101
Waldorf, MD 20602
Phone: (301) 494-1006
Ready to Stay Protected?
Call us today to schedule your adult vaccination appointment and safeguard your health for years to come.