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Adult vaccinations

Staying up to date on vaccines is an important part of staying healthy as an adult. Some vaccines wear off over time and need booster doses, while others are recommended at specific ages or life stages. Talk to your health care provider about which vaccines are right for you.

Statistics on adult Canadians

1 in 3

will get shingles in their lifetime, yet only 27% of older Canadians have been vaccinated

Only 37%

get the pneumococcal vaccine, yet adults 65 and older are more likely to be hospitalized if they get invasive pneumococcal disease

Only 53%

of Canadian adults report getting a tetanus vaccine as an adult

Why adult vaccines matter

Vaccines aren't just for children. Keeping your vaccines up to date as an adult helps you:

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Avoid unnecessary suffering

Vaccine-preventable diseases can cause serious, lasting complications even in previously healthy adults.

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Stay independent

Staying healthy means staying active and able to care for the people who depend on you.

Shield

Protect those who can't be vaccinated

Some people — including newborns and those with certain medical conditions — rely on the people around them to stay vaccinated.

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Save time and money

Preventing illness keeps you from missing work and helps avoid the costs that come with getting sick.

Free vaccines for adults in Ontario

The following vaccines are publicly funded (free) for adults who meet the eligibility criteria. Your vaccination needs vary depending on your medical history, occupation, lifestyle, travel plans, and any new vaccines that become available.

Vaccine Who it's for
COVID-19 Follow Ontario Ministry of Health recommendations
Flu shot Everyone six months and older — every fall
RSV vaccine Older high-risk adults — check current eligibility
Pneumococcal Adults at age 65
Shingles Two doses between ages 65–70 (free for those who have never had a publicly funded shingles vaccine)
Tetanus, diptheria and pertussis Once in adulthood and once in every pregnancy
Tetanus and diphtheria Booster every 10 years
Mpox At-risk groups — two doses recommended. Only available at Public Health vaccination clinics only.

Video: Tetanus

 

Video: Get your Pertussis Booster