As we get older, our immune systems tend to decline making us more susceptible to infections. Many of the infections are now preventable with the help of vaccinations. According to the Centers for Disease Control, there are certain vaccines that are recommended for adults over 50 years old (assuming you had all the childhood vaccinations). Here goes:

• Tetanus and diphtheria (Td) should be given every ten years. If you have an injury with a rusty nail, an animal bite or a dirty puncture wound, and it has been more than 5 years since your last vaccine you will need a booster sooner.

• The flu vaccine should be given yearly. Every year the vaccine is put together based on the flu strains that will be most likely to infect the population.

• The Pneumococcal vaccine is recommended for all adults 65 and over. It is recommended for those adults over 50 who have asthma, diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, HIV or depressed immunity.

• The varicella or shingles vaccine is recommended for those 60 years and over who have had chicken pox in the past. It can either prevent shingles, or diminish the severity of shingles develops. For those who have never had chicken pox, the chicken pox vaccine is recommended.

• For those who travel, hepatitis A and B vaccines, and a variety of other vaccines may be recommended, which are determined based on where you go.

• Depending on your medical condition or your job (healthcare workers) there may be more recommended vaccinations. Check out: http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/recs/schedules/adult-schedule.htm

If you are behind on your vaccinations, it is time to get caught up! It could save your life.