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

The recommended vaccination schedule for adults includes giving three doses of diphtheria, tetanus, and poliomyelitis vaccine (Td/IPV) spaced 4 weeks apart, and two doses of measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine spaced at least 4 weeks apart, for those who have missed childhood immunisations .

For individuals aged 25 years or over, a two-dose schedule of HPV vaccine (spaced 6 to 24 months apart) is recommended if they missed vaccination in childhood, with the course to be resumed if interrupted, but not repeated .

Catch-up vaccinations for other vaccines, such as MenACWY, are also advised for those who missed initial doses, especially in the context of specific programmes like the MenACWY catch-up scheme for older adolescents and university entrants up to age 25 .

In cases of uncertain or incomplete immunisation history, it is recommended to assume the individual has not been vaccinated and to provide the full course of vaccines as outlined above .

Educational content only. Always verify information and use clinical judgement.