Children aren't the only ones who need vaccines. Adults need boosters because protection from some childhood vaccines can wear off. Adults also need protection against different diseases, like shingles, and a yearly flu shot.

• Find out which vaccines you need. Most pharmacies and clinics offer routine immunizations.
• Insurance plans cover most vaccines. Uninsured? Visit Washington Healthplanfinder to get covered.
• Check your vaccination records online with Washington MyIR.
• If you're traveling, you might need additional vaccines. Whatcom County Health and community Services does not provide travel vaccines. Visit your health care provider or a travel medicine specialist to get the shots you need. 

Which vaccines do I need?

All adults need a dose of the Td or Tdap vaccine and a yearly flu shot. Depending on your age, health conditions, job, and lifestyle, you might need other vaccines too.

• Getting a flu shot every year helps keep you from getting sick. Get the shot from your health care provider or pharmacy.
• Check the recommended adult immunization schedule (PDF) for details on the shots you need.
• Answer a few questions in the CDC’s Adult Vaccine Assessment Tool to get a list of vaccines you should have based on your job, age, or other factors.

Where can I get immunizations?

Talk to your health care provider about getting the vaccines you need during your next office visit.

• Most insurance plans cover all the costs of getting vaccines. Visit your usual health care provider to get your shots.
• If you don't have a regular health care provider, check with a pharmacy about getting vaccinated. Many pharmacies give routine immunizations.

Where can I get required/recommended travel immunizations?

If you're traveling, you might need additional vaccines. Whatcom County Health and Community Services does not provide travel vaccines. Visit your health care provider or a travel medicine specialist to get the shots you need. Visit the CDC to learn more about travel vaccines.

If you are vising multiple countries or have a pre-existing health condition, you may need to see a travel medicine specialist. To find local travel medicine specialists, visit the Global Clinic Directory.

If a yellow fever shot is recommended or required, you will need to visit an authorized yellow fever vaccine clinic. To find a local clinic, visit the Global Clinic Directory or the CDC yellow fever vaccination clinics page.

How can I check my immunization records?

There are a few ways to access your immunization information:

• Sign up for Washington MyIR where you can view, download, and print immunization records.
• Request your records from your usual health care provider. Most providers can access records through the Washington State Immunization Information System. Check with them first to make sure they have your complete records.
• Request a complete immunization record from the Washington State Department of Health.