Immunizations for Every Stage of Life

Vaccines are one of the true success stories in medicine. They keep us safe from serious illnesses, protect our loved ones, and give us the chance to live longer, healthier lives. A lot of people think of vaccines as something kids need, but the truth is, they’re important for every stage of life. From the very first days of infancy all the way through our senior years, keeping up with recommended vaccines is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your health and the health of those around you. At Bluestem Health, our family medicine and pediatric providers are here to guide you and your loved ones, making sure you feel supported, informed, and confident about the care plan.

Why Immunizations Matter

Vaccines work by teaching your immune system how to recognize and fight off harmful diseases without making you sick. That means you can be protected from serious illnesses and help prevent the spread of contagious diseases in your community. Vaccines are especially important for those who are more vulnerable, like newborns, older adults, or people with health conditions that make it harder for their bodies to fight off infections.

When you stay up to date on your immunizations, you’re not just looking out for yourself—you’re helping protect those around you. Every vaccine you receive is a gift of health and safety to yourself, your family, and your community.

CDC Recommendations by Age Group

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides clear immunization schedules for people of all ages. We’ve listed the recommended vaccinations below to help you know which vaccines and when they should be given.

Infants and Children (Birth through Age 6)

• Babies begin their immunizations at birth with the hepatitis B vaccine. In the first years of life, children receive protection against diseases like polio, measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough (pertussis), and chickenpox. These early vaccines are essential because young children are highly vulnerable to severe complications from these illnesses.
• Annual flu shots are encouraged for everyone six months and older.

Adolescents, Ages 7–18

• Around age 11–12, children should receive the HPV vaccine, which protects against cancers caused by the human papillomavirus.
• The Tdap vaccine (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) is also recommended at this age, along with a meningococcal vaccine to help prevent meningitis.

Adults (19-64)

• Adults should keep up with a Tdap booster every 10 years to stay protected against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. 
• Women who are pregnant should receive the Tdap vaccine during pregnancy to protect their newborn.
• Annual flu shots are strongly recommended, as well as the COVID-19 vaccine and boosters when eligible.
• For adults over 50, it is recommended they receive the shingles vaccine. 

Depending on health status, lifestyle, and travel, adults may also need vaccines for hepatitis A and B, pneumococcal disease, and more. Talk with your Bluestem Health provider about what immunizations you might need at your next visit.

Older Adults (65 and over)

• Seniors are more vulnerable to serious illness and complications from diseases such as flu, pneumonia, and shingles. The CDC recommends the following:
• Stay current on getting a Tdap booster every 10 years to stay protected against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis.
• Adults receive pneumococcal vaccines to protect against pneumonia and bloodstream infections.
• Stay up to date with flu and COVID-19 vaccinations.
• Get two doses of the shingles vaccine if adults have not already received them.
• All adults 75 years or older should get a single dose of RSV vaccine.

How Bluestem Health Can Help

Our family medicine and pediatric providers care for patients of all ages. That means we can serve your entire family—from newborns to grandparents—in one welcoming and inclusive setting. Our providers carefully review your medical history, age, and health conditions to ensure you receive the right vaccines at the right time.

We know that vaccines can sometimes raise questions, and our providers are here to give you the answers and peace of mind you need. Whether it’s explaining the CDC guidelines, helping you catch up on missed vaccines, or preparing your child for their first shots, we work hard to keep your family safe and healthy.

Protecting the Health of Our Community

Staying up to date with vaccines is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect your health at every stage of life. And the reality is that you only need to schedule an appointment to get started. Our team is just a call away: (402) 476-1455.