The latest recommendations for immunization schedules.
Earlier this year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their recommended immunization schedules for children, adolescents, and adults in 2024. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), comprised of medical and public health experts, provides these recommendations.
The most notable updates include changes to vaccines for the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), mpox, meningococcal, influenza, and COVID-19.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
Protection against RSV, a respiratory infection that can be extremely dangerous for infants and the elderly, is now recommended for people who are pregnant (between 32 and 36 weeks) and older adults (aged 60 and above).
Mpox
Mpox, or monkeypox, is from the same virus family as chicken and smallpox. The mpox vaccine is recommended for anyone 18 and older at risk for infection — typically men with certain sexual risk factors or those who have been in close contact with someone who is infected. The mpox vaccine, Jynneos, is administered 28 days apart.
Meningococcal
Prior to the 2024 updates, two different vaccines (MenACWY and MenB) were recommended for meningococcal disease. The pentavalent option (Penbraya) is now available, and it targets five bacterial strains that cause blood poisoning and meningitis.
Influenza
While research is underway for a universal vaccine to target the flu virus, the recommendation stands that most adults should receive an annual flu shot. Many have the choice between the injected vaccine or a nasal spray, and the CDC suggests adults 65 years or older receive a high dose.
COVID-19
The updated COVID-19 vaccine now replaces the bivalent mRNA COVID-19 booster and targets strains of the virus found circulating in communities (such as Omicron XBB.15). The CDC recommends adults ages 65 and older receive an additional updated COVID-19 vaccine.
The CDC’s website provides a full, in-depth breakdown of the immunization schedule by age for children and adolescents (18 years or younger) and adults (19 years or older).
Talk to your healthcare provider during your next appointment to ask if you need to implement any changes to your care to protect yourself.
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/easy-to-read/child-easyread.html
https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/hcp/imz/child-adolescent.html
https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/hcp/imz/adult.html
https://www.verywellhealth.com/2024-adult-vaccine-schedule-updates-8405325
https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/adult-immunization-schedule-updated-with-new-vaccines-for-2024