4. Tdap booster

The Tdap vaccine protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (whooping cough). All of these are serious, potentially deadly illnesses caused by bacteria. Diphtheria and pertussis are spread from person to person. Tetanus enters the body through cuts, scratches, or wounds.

Who should get it: Everyone aged 19 to 64, except pregnant women.

How often: For many years, adults were advised to get a routine booster dose of Td (tetanus and diphtheria) every 10 years. It, however, does not contain pertussis vaccine. Ask for the new Tdap booster (which protects against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) instead of the Td the next time you need a booster shot.