Vaccines for measles, mumps, rubella, varicella, and herpes zoster: immunization guidelines for adults.

Although vaccinations are most commonly associated with the pediatric population, it is important for healthcare professionals to be familiar with the vaccines that are recommended for adults. The authors discuss 3 vaccines-the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, the varicella vaccine, and the herpes zoster vaccine-including information about the diseases and complications that they protect against. Two doses, separated by 4 weeks, of both the MMR and varicella vaccines are recommended for all adults who do not have immunization or contraindications. All adults aged 60 years or older should receive a single dose of the herpes zoster vaccine unless they have contraindications. These 3 vaccines offer protection from illnesses that can have serious sequelae and substantial public health implications.