Which vaccine is recommended for adults and children on an annual basis?

The influenza vaccine is recommended for both adults and children on an annual basis due to the nature of the influenza virus, which can change from year to year. Each year, public health officials and researchers evaluate the circulating strains of the virus and formulate the vaccine to target the most prevalent strains. This annual vaccination helps protect individuals from becoming ill with influenza and reduces the risk of severe complications associated with the disease.

In contrast, the other vaccines listed have different administration schedules. The pneumococcal vaccine is typically recommended based on age and health conditions rather than annually. The shingles vaccine is generally recommended as a one-time dose for older adults, without the need for annual revaccination. The Tdap vaccine (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) is usually given as a series during childhood, with a booster recommended every ten years rather than on an annual basis. Therefore, the annual recommendation for the influenza vaccine distinguishes it from these other vaccines.