Many vaccines are provided early in life to induce immunity before diseases occur. However, protection from vaccination is not always lifelong. In addition, changing lifestyle and health factors, and an increased risk of certain diseases with age, means the vaccination needs of adults should be assessed regularly. In recent years there has been an increase in the number of vaccines provided to adolescents, primarily through school-based vaccination programs. Improving the protection provided by immunisation throughout adulthood is the next challenge.The role of GPs and other immunisation providers is crucial in ensuring delivery and uptake of adult vaccines. This article aims to provide an overview of vaccination of adults and discusses some of the barriers to, and opportunities for, providing best practice in this area.
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