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Le Centre de vaccination AES is now part of the PRELEV Group.
Le Centre de vaccination AES is now part of the PRELEV Group.
When we think about vaccination, we often associate it with young children. Yet the protection provided by some vaccines can decrease over time. That’s why booster shots remain essential, even in adulthood.
Whether you’re a frequent traveler, a parent, a public-facing worker, or simply mindful of your health, checking your vaccination status is a great way to prevent certain vaccine-preventable diseases.
A booster shot is an additional dose given after an initial vaccination, with the goal of maintaining or strengthening immunity against a disease. Over the years, the protection provided by some vaccines can decrease, which increases the risk of contracting certain infections.
Booster shots therefore help your immune system maintain effective protection against diseases that are still circulating today.[1]
Depending on your age, health status, occupation, or travel plans, several vaccines may be recommended.
The tetanus vaccine is among the best-known boosters for the general public. Recommendations vary by province; in Quebec, a booster is scheduled at age 50 [2]. Meanwhile, the Canadian Immunization Guide suggests receiving a booster dose every 10 years to maintain adequate protection.[3]
Tetanus is a serious disease caused by a bacterium found in our environment. Even a small injury can allow this bacterium to enter the body.[4]
Pertussis can affect adults and be easily transmitted to more vulnerable people, especially infants. That’s why a booster is often recommended in adulthood, particularly for expectant parents and people who regularly spend time around young children[3]. In Quebec, the pertussis vaccine is also recommended for pregnant women during each pregnancy, ideally between the 26th and 32nd week.[5]
Some vaccinations are recommended seasonally or based on age and risk factors. They help reduce complications associated with certain respiratory infections, particularly in more vulnerable people. [1]
These vaccines are particularly important for certain categories of travelers or workers. Depending on the circumstances, checking your protection may be recommended before traveling abroad. [6]
Many adults no longer know exactly which vaccines they received or when they got their last booster. Yet a simple check is sometimes enough to identify protections that should be updated. [1]
This step is especially important:
Some destinations may expose travelers to diseases that are uncommon in Canada. Before departure, it is therefore recommended to have your vaccination record assessed to ensure that all boosters or additional vaccines are needed[7]
A travel health consultation provides recommendations tailored to your destination, length of stay, and planned activities.
To learn more, read our full article.
Vaccination doesn’t stop in childhood. Booster shots remain an essential tool for maintaining strong protection against several vaccine-preventable diseases.
Whether you need to update your vaccination record or prepare for travel abroad, the Centre de vaccination AES team can support you and advise you based on your situation.
Book an in-clinic appointment to check whether your vaccines are up to date and travel with peace of mind.
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