Abstract
Immunization against infectious diseases belongs historically to the most successful medical preventive approaches. Currently, more than 20 vaccines against the most life-threatening infections are available.
It is recommended to vaccinate not only children but also in adulthood and in older age. Seniors and other vulnerable groups of persons with chronic diseases benefit most from targeted vaccination strategies.
Earlier this year WHO launched a strategy "Immunization Agenda 2030: A Global Strategy to Leave No One Behind" and International Federation on Ageing started campaign "Vaccines4Life" with the aim to support and improve awareness of public on vaccination and its importance for healthy ageing, to make vaccination an important societal priority and strengthen nation vaccination strategies. In addition to currently discussed and implemented vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 which is prioritized in the coronavirus pandemic struggle it is equally important to continue with other regular vaccinations.
In older age the universally recommended is the influenza and pneumococcal diseases vaccination which are very effective in preventing the risk of infection, severity of the disease and infection-related functional decline/disability. Both vaccines are fully covered from health insurance and were found to have a long-term beneficial effect on overall mortality, cardiovascular events, and stroke.
Further, Czech vaccinology society recommends vaccination against herpes zoster, tetanus, and pertussis. The article summarizes current information on recommended vaccines in person 65 years and over.