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Immunisations for Seniors: Why Vaccinations Are Vital

March 27, 2025

By Dr Julie Blaze

Is your immune system working as well as it used to? Are your immunisations up to date? As we age, our body’s defence system naturally weakens, leaving us more vulnerable to infectious diseases and making vaccines less effective. This challenging combination makes staying up to date with your immunisation schedule especially important for seniors.

Here’s what we recommend to keep you protected throughout the year:

Winter Immunisation: Seasonal Protection

Influenza Immunisation

Vaccination begins in April and is free for everyone over 65 under the National Immunisation Programme (NIH). Seniors receive Fluad Quad, which contains a special additive to boost effectiveness in older adults.

COVID-19 Vaccine

We continue to see cases regularly, with elderly people at higher risk. Free boosters are recommended every 12 months for those aged 65-74 and every six months for those 75+. Consider getting your booster before winter or travel.

Annual Immunisation: Year-Round Protection

Pneumococcal Immunisation

This vaccine protects against serious infections, including pneumonia. It’s provided free for adults over 70 and is an essential part of senior health care.

RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) Vaccine

RSV can cause severe respiratory illness in seniors. Vaccines are recommended for adults over 75 and should be considered for those 60-74 with chronic conditions. While not covered under the NIH, they’re worth discussing with a GP.

Shingles Immunisation

The risk of this condition increases with age. The NIH provides free Shingrix vaccination for those over 65, which is specifically formulated for older adults.

The immunisation schedule is complex, and we’ve only covered age-related recommendations in this article! Other factors, such as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander background, may qualify you for additional free vaccines.