Protect Yourself at Any Age: The Top 3 Vaccines Adults Shouldn’t Ignore

The recent and shocking death of Taiwanese actress Barbie Hsu—beloved in the Philippines as San Cai from the hit 2000s series Meteor Garden—has reignited important discussions about the risks posed by seemingly minor illnesses such as the flu. Her sudden passing serves as a wake-up call, especially for healthy adults who may underestimate the seriousness of common viral or bacterial infections.

According to Dr. Ryan Raymond Y. Bautista of Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed), one of the top hospitals in the Philippines, adult vaccination remains a critical yet often overlooked preventive health measure. “Even if an adult has a fully developed immune system, it doesn’t guarantee immunity from preventable but potentially fatal diseases,” Dr. Bautista explains. “Vaccines play a crucial role in priming the body’s defenses, helping prevent serious complications and saving lives.”

Dr. Bautista emphasizes that being proactive about vaccinations can spare individuals from unnecessary suffering, costly hospitalizations, or worse, irreversible health outcomes. Vaccines introduce a harmless form of a virus or bacteria into the body, allowing the immune system to produce antibodies and ‘remember’ the pathogen. When the real infection strikes, the body can respond faster and more effectively.

To protect yourself and your loved ones, especially during flu season, MakatiMed recommends that adults stay updated on the following three essential vaccines:

1. Influenza (Flu) Vaccine

Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness that causes symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue. Types A and B of the flu virus are the most severe and can lead to complications like pneumonia, respiratory failure, and even death—especially among the elderly, pregnant women, and people with chronic health conditions.

In the Philippines, the flu vaccine is typically administered annually, especially during cooler months starting in January. There are several types of flu vaccines available:

Quadrivalent Vaccine – protects against two strains each of Influenza A and B

Adjuvanted Vaccine – formulated for adults aged 65 and older

Jet Injector Vaccine – used for those between 18 and 64 years old

“It takes about two weeks for your body to build immunity, and protection usually lasts for one year,” notes Dr. Bautista.

2. Pneumonia Vaccine

Pneumonia, often caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae, is the third leading cause of death in the Philippines. The disease affects lung function, impairing oxygen supply and often leading to severe health consequences.

Dr. Bautista recommends two types of pneumonia vaccines:

PCV13 (Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine 13) – protects against 13 types of pneumococcal bacteria

PPSV23 (Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine 23) – protects against 23 types

“For adults aged 60 and above, PCV13 is usually given first, followed by PPSV23 after one year. However, newer vaccines like PCV15 and PCV20 now offer broader protection and don’t require additional doses,” explains Dr. Bautista. For healthy adults aged 18 to 64, only PCV13 is typically recommended.

3. Tdap Vaccine (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis)

The Tdap vaccine offers protection against three dangerous bacterial infections:

Tetanus – causes painful muscle spasms, especially in the jaw and neck

Diphtheria – a respiratory illness that can affect the heart and nervous system

Pertussis (Whooping Cough) – a highly contagious disease causing violent coughing fits

“These diseases can restrict breathing and may be fatal, especially in vulnerable populations,” says Dr. Bautista. “Adults should get a Tdap shot if they haven’t had one before, followed by a booster every 10 years. It’s also crucial for pregnant women and caregivers who are in close contact with infants.”
Side Effects and Final Reminders

Most vaccines may cause mild side effects such as fever, chills, or pain at the injection site. These symptoms typically go away within a few days. “The short-term discomfort is nothing compared to the long-term protection and peace of mind that vaccines provide,” Dr. Bautista reassures.

Getting vaccinated is a simple but powerful way to protect not only yourself but also your family and the wider community from preventable diseases. Makati Medical Center encourages all adults to make vaccination a regular part of their healthcare routine.

Stay protected. Stay informed. Get vaccinated today.