Recommended adult immunization schedule--United States, 2002-2003.

Although the childhood immunization program in the United States has reduced the burden of vaccine-preventable disease substantially among children, substantial vaccine-preventable morbidity and mortality from diseases such as hepatitis A, hepatitis B, influenza, and pneumococcal infections continue to occur among adults. In February 2002, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) approved for the first time a schedule for the routine vaccination of persons aged > or = 19 years. The Adult Immunization Schedule has been accepted by the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). ACIP will review and approve annually both the recommended adult and childhood immunization schedules. Together, these schedules provide a comprehensive summary of recommendations for prevention of vaccine-preventable diseases during the life span of persons in the United States.