What is the recommended vaccination schedule for adults, including catch-up vaccinations for those who missed childhood immunisations?

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Posted: 16 August 2025 Guideline-Aligned (High Confidence) Clinically Reviewed
Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX

For adults, the recommended catch-up vaccinations include:

  • Three doses of diphtheria, tetanus, poliomyelitis vaccine (Td/IPV) spaced 4 weeks apart.
  • Two doses of measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine spaced at least 4 weeks apart.
  • If history is uncertain, assume no prior vaccination and administer these doses accordingly .

Additional adult catch-up vaccinations based on specific circumstances include:

  • A single dose of MenACWY vaccine for those aged 10–25 years with incomplete MenC history or who have not received MenACWY .
  • A single dose of HPV vaccine for individuals under 25 years; those aged 25 or over should receive two doses spaced 6–24 months apart .

For other vaccines, such as pneumococcal conjugate (PCV), meningococcal B (MenB), and influenza, specific age and risk-based recommendations apply, and these should be checked against current guidelines .

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