If you think you’re too old for vaccines, think again. These shots help prevent countless infections and diseases—in both children and adults. Staying up to date on your immunizations is an important way to keep yourself and your community healthy.

Some people worry about the side effects of vaccines, but most of them are mild, such as a sore arm or low-grade fever that goes away in a few days. If you develop a high fever or flu-like symptoms, experience behavioral changes or any signs of an allergic reaction up to 30 days after a vaccination, call your doctor.