How long does immunity last after getting a vaccine?
A few vaccines, like the one for measles or the series for hepatitis B, may make you immune for your entire life. Others, like tetanus, last for many years but require periodic shots (boosters) for continued protection against the disease. The whooping cough (pertussis) vaccine also does not give lifelong immunity, and that may be one reason why there are still outbreaks of the disease. And although pertussis isn’t a serious problem for older kids and adults, it can be for infants and young children. Because of this, adolescents and adults now receive a pertussis booster along with the tetanus and diphtheria booster (Tdap) — an important step in controlling this infection. It’s important to keep a record of vaccinations so you’ll know when your child is due for a booster. Also consider getting the flu vaccine each year, if it isn’t in short supply. Having been immunized last year won’t protect someone from getting the flu this year because the protection wears off and flu viruses const
A few vaccines, like the two for measles or the series for hepatitis B, may make you immune for your entire life. Others, like tetanus, last for many years but require periodic shots (boosters) for continued protection against the disease. The whooping cough (pertussis) vaccine also does not give lifelong immunity, and that may be one reason why there are still outbreaks of the disease. And although pertussis isn’t a serious problem for older kids and adults, it can be for infants and young children. Because of this, adolescents and adults now receive a pertussis booster along with the tetanus and diphtheria booster (Tdap) — an important step in controlling this infection. It’s important to keep a record of vaccinations so the doctor knows when your child is due for a booster. Also make sure your child gets the flu vaccine each year, if it isn’t in short supply. Having been immunized last year won’t protect someone from getting the flu this year because the protection wears off and flu
