Policies and Forms/Resources

1. Influenza Vaccine

• Who: All people ≥6 months old annually
  
  

• Why: Protects against seasonal influenza and reduces complications in high-risk groups
  
  

• Notes: Recommended especially for adults ≥65 years, pregnant people, immunocompromised, and those with chronic conditions
  
  

2. Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (Td/Tdap)

• Who: All adults should receive a Tdap booster once in adulthood, then Td or Tdap every 10 years
  
  

• Why: Protects against tetanus (from cuts), diphtheria (rare but serious respiratory infection), and pertussis (whooping cough)
  
  

• Notes: Tdap is preferred once in adulthood to boost pertussis immunity
  
  

3. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine

• Who: Recommended for everyone through age 26 if not previously vaccinated; some adults 27–45 may benefit after shared decision-making
  
  

• Why: Prevents HPV infection, cervical cancer, anal cancer, and genital warts
  
  

• Notes: Usually given as a 2–3 dose series depending on age at initiation
  
  

4. Shingles Vaccine (Herpes Zoster)

• Who: Adults ≥50 years
  
  

• Why: Prevents shingles and postherpetic neuralgia
  
  

• Notes: Recombinant zoster vaccine (Shingrix) — two doses, 2–6 months apart; high effectiveness even in older adults
  
  

5. Pneumococcal Vaccines

• Who: Adults ≥65 years and younger adults with chronic health conditions (heart, lung, liver disease, diabetes, immunocompromised)
  
  

• Why: Prevents pneumococcal pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections
  
  

• Notes: Two types (PCV20 or PCV15 + PPSV23) depending on age and health status — follow local guidelines
  
  

6. Hepatitis B Vaccine

• Who: All adults who have not been previously immunized or lack immunity (especially healthcare workers, people with diabetes, chronic liver disease, or certain high-risk behaviours)
  
  

• Why: Prevents hepatitis B infection and chronic liver disease
  
  

• Notes: Usually given as a 2–3 dose series depending on vaccine type
  
  

7. MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) Vaccine

• Who: Adults without evidence of immunity (born after 1957 with no documented two doses)
  
  

• Why: Prevents measles, mumps, and rubella — important for travel and outbreak control
  
  

• Notes: Two doses at least 28 days apart if needed
  
  

8. Varicella (Chickenpox) Vaccine

• Who: Adults without immunity (no history of disease or documented vaccination)
  
  

• Why: Prevents varicella infection and complications
  
  

• Notes: Two doses, 4–8 weeks apart