Planning Your Health in 2026

There’s no better time to take stock of your health than the present! Whether you’re catching up on routine vaccinations, planning international travel, or looking for an immunity boost, a little planning now can prevent illness and keep you thriving all year long. At The Shot Nurse, we believe proactive health planning is the foundation of a healthy year. 

Your New Year Health Checklist

Understanding Your Vaccination Schedule

Staying current with vaccinations is one of the most effective ways to prevent serious illness. Many adults aren’t aware that immunizations don’t stop after childhood, and keeping track of what you need can feel overwhelming.

For Adults

• Annual flu shots remain your first line of defense against seasonal influenza.
• COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters continue to evolve based on current variants. Check with your healthcare provider about whether you’re due for an updated vaccine, especially if you’re over 65, immunocompromised, or have chronic health conditions.
• Adults 50 and older should discuss shingles vaccination with their provider.

For Children and Teens

• Children have a more complex vaccination schedule that includes protection against measles, mumps, rubella, polio, hepatitis, HPV, and more. If your child has fallen behind on their immunization schedule, schedule catch-up vaccines with your provider to get them back on track.
• Adolescents need booster shots and additional vaccines as they enter their teenage years, including the meningococcal vaccine and HPV vaccine series if not already completed. Children of all ages may have vaccine requirements for school admission.

For Seniors

• Seniors should have conversations with their healthcare providers about RSV vaccines. RSV can cause serious respiratory illness in older adults, making prevention crucial.
• Pneumococcal vaccines are recommended for adults 65 and older, as well as younger adults with certain health conditions. These vaccines protect against pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections.

Planning for Travel Vaccinations

If international travel is on your 2026 calendar, don’t wait until the last minute to think about travel vaccinations. Some vaccines require multiple doses over several weeks or months, and your body needs time to build immunity before you depart.

Common Travel Vaccines

Depending on your destination, you may need vaccinations for typhoid, yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, or other conditions. Some countries require proof of certain vaccinations for entry. Check if there are any travel warnings issued for your destination here.

Timeline Matters

Schedule a travel health consultation at least four to six weeks before your departure date. This gives you time to receive all necessary doses and allows your immune system to develop full protection. Bring your travel itinerary, planned activities, and any existing health concerns to your appointment so your provider can give pointed recommendations. 

Creating a Health Calendar

Organization is key to staying on top of everyone’s health needs. Creating a centralized calendar can help you track vaccination schedules, annual checkups, and wellness appointments throughout the year.

• Set Up Annual Checkups: Schedule annual physical exams for every family member early in the year. These checkups are your opportunity to discuss any health concerns, review vaccination status, and catch potential issues.
• Mark Vaccination Deadlines: Add reminders for seasonal vaccines like flu shots (typically available in early fall) and note when children are due for school-required immunizations. 
• Plan Ahead for Travel: If you have trips planned, mark your calendar four to six weeks before departure as your deadline for scheduling travel health consultations.
• Don’t Forget Preventive Screenings: Depending on age and risk factors, your family members may be due for various health screenings. Schedule these proactively rather than waiting for symptoms to appear.

Preventing Illness Beyond Vaccinations

While vaccinations are crucial, they’re just one piece of a comprehensive prevention strategy. Supporting your immune system through lifestyle choices makes a significant difference in your overall health.

Foundational Health Habits

• A good night’s sleep is the best immunity booster. Adults should aim for seven to nine hours per night.
• Regular physical activity strengthens your immune system, reduces stress, and improves overall health. Find activities you enjoy so you’ll stick with them.
• Nutrition matters immensely for immune function. Focus on whole foods, plenty of fruits and vegetables, protein, and staying hydrated.
• Stress management helps prevent the immune suppression that chronic stress can cause.
• Consistent handwashing remains one of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent illness. Teach children proper handwashing technique and make it a habit for yourself!
• Stay home when sick to let your body recover, and prevent the spread of germs.

Taking Action: Your Next Steps

Feeling good about 2026? With a plan in place, you should! To start off the new year on a good foot, review vaccination records and catch-up if needed. Check your calendar for upcoming travel and determine when you need to schedule travel vaccines, if any. Schedule any appointments you know you’ll need, and maintain good health and hygiene habits into the new year.

We can help you check some of these items off your list! Contact The Shot Nurse in Memphis to schedule vaccinations, discuss travel health needs, or explore wellness shot options. Your healthiest year starts with a single appointment, just walk in!