Preventing tetanus, influenza, and pneumococcal infection in adults.

Immunization remains the most cost-effective tool in preventive medicine. Many adults should receive seven immunizations: influenza, pneumococcal, measles, rubella, and hepatitis B vaccines and tetanus and diphtheria toxoids. This article will focus on the use of immunizations in adults to prevent tetanus, diphtheria, influenza, and pneumococcal disease and on some of the barriers and solutions to adequate immunization. Physician assistants can play a crucial role in preventing infectious diseases by organizing effective screening programs and routinely administering appropriate vaccines to their patients.