They can be important in warding off diseases, but immunizations aren’t just for kids.

“There are certain immunizations they are going to need that we typically recommend,” says Dr. Shannon Greer, a family practice physician on the Lee Memorial Health System medical staff. Different age groups should consider different immunizations.

“For women, one of the big and new ones is Gardasil. Its main thrust is to prevent cervical cancer. That’s a series of three shots given to girls starting at age 9 through to 26.”

Once you reach your 60’s, Dr. Greer says, “Zostavax. For anyone who’s had chicken pox in the past they run a risk of having shingles later on in life because the virus actually resides in the body and can come out later on in life usually during times of stress.”

You may also want to discuss the flu and pneumonia vaccines with your physician as well.

Dr. Greer says your immunization timetable is based on your medical and family history.