The widespread implementation of childhood immunization programs has substantially reduced the occurrence of many immunization-preventable diseases. However, adults may be at risk for these diseases and their complications if they escaped natural infection or have not been immunized against diphtheria, tetanus, measles, mumps, rubella, varicella (chicken pox), and poliomyelitis.

Other immunization-preventable diseases (hepatitis B, rabies, influenza, and pneumococcal disease) may pose a risk to persons in certain age, occupational, environmental, and life-style groups and those with special health problems.

• Women of child-bearing age should be fully immunized to protect themselves and, in the case of pregnancy, their unborn child.
• Travelers to some countries may also be at increased risk of exposure to immunization-preventable illnesses.
• Foreign students, immigrants, and refugees may be susceptible to these diseases.
  A systemic approach to immunizations is necessary to ensure that every adult is appropriately protected against immunization-preventable diseases.

Every visit by an adult to a healthcare provider should be an opportunity to review and update immunization status. Healthcare providers and individuals should maintain detailed records about each person’s immunization history.