Vaccines, made convenient

COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus that produces respiratory symptoms in most people. It spreads through droplets from the mouth and nose when people breathe, cough, sneeze, or speak. Symptoms can include fever, chills, cough, fatigue, and body aches. Eligibility: adults 65+, and ages 12–65 based on CDC criteria, with no prescription required. For children under 12, see the pediatric vaccine section.

RSV is a common respiratory virus that can cause mild cold-like symptoms but can be serious in infants, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions. Vaccination helps reduce the risk of severe illness. Eligibility: adults 50+, pregnant women between 32 and 36 weeks, and certain individuals at higher risk, as determined by the pharmacist.

Meningococcal disease is a bacterial infection that can lead to meningitis (inflammation of the brain and spinal cord lining) and bloodstream infections. It spreads through close contact and requires urgent prevention. Eligibility: adolescents, college students, military recruits, and certain at-risk adults.

Hepatitis A is a viral liver infection spread through contaminated food or water. Symptoms include fatigue, jaundice, stomach pain, and nausea. The vaccine provides long-term protection. Eligibility: two-dose series available for all adults, especially travelers to certain regions or people at higher risk.

Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection caused by the Hepatitis B virus, spread through blood or body fluids. It can become chronic and lead to liver disease or cancer. Eligibility: two-dose series available for all adults; especially important for healthcare workers, travelers, and people with chronic illness.

Pneumococcal disease can cause lung infections, bloodstream infections, and meningitis. The vaccine reduces the risk of serious illness and complications. Eligibility: adults 50+, and younger adults with certain chronic conditions.

Polio is a highly contagious viral disease that can cause paralysis. It spreads through contaminated food, water, or contact with an infected person. Eligibility: children and adults needing catch-up doses or travel protection.

Shingles is a painful rash caused by reactivation of the chickenpox virus. The vaccine helps prevent shingles and long-term nerve pain. Eligibility: adults 50+ and those with weakened immune systems. Given as a 2-dose series, with the second dose typically 2–6 months after the first.

Tdap protects against tetanus (muscle stiffness), diphtheria (throat infection), and pertussis (whooping cough). Recommended every 10 years. Eligibility: adolescents, adults, and during pregnancy.

Typhoid is a serious infection caused by Salmonella Typhi bacteria, spread through contaminated food or water. Symptoms include fever, stomach pain, and weakness. Eligibility: travelers to areas with higher typhoid risk.

MMR is a combination vaccine protecting against measles (rash, fever), mumps (swollen glands), and rubella (German measles). Eligibility: children and unvaccinated adults.

Yellow Fever is a viral disease spread by mosquitoes, causing fever, chills, headache, and, in severe cases, liver damage. The vaccine is highly effective and often mandatory for entry into certain countries. Eligibility: required for travel to certain countries in Africa and South America.

The flu vaccine helps protect against influenza, a contagious respiratory infection that can cause fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, and fatigue. Because flu viruses change each year, annual vaccination is recommended to reduce the risk of illness, complications, and spreading the virus to others. Eligibility: everyone 6 months and older, especially young children, adults over 65, pregnant women, and people with chronic health conditions.

The HPV vaccine helps protect against the human papillomavirus, a common infection that can lead to cervical, vaginal, vulvar, anal, penile, and throat cancers, as well as genital warts. It is most effective when given before exposure to the virus. Depending on age at vaccination, it may be given in a 2- or 3-dose series. Eligibility: preteens (boys and girls) at ages 11–12, can start at age 9. Catch-up up to age 26. Adults 27–45 may also benefit depending on individual risk factors.