In today’s world, staying healthy is more important than ever, but for many adults in Los Angeles County, healthcare costs can be a major barrier. At Aviva Pharmacy, we believe that cost should never stop anyone from getting the vaccines they need to protect themselves and their loved ones. That’s why we offer free and low-cost vaccines, helping individuals in our community stay safe and healthy—regardless of their insurance status or income.

Why Are Vaccines Critical for Adults?

Vaccines aren’t just for kids! Adults are at risk of several preventable diseases that can cause serious health complications, hospitalizations, and even death. Many adults may have missed vaccines earlier in life or need booster shots to stay protected.

As people age, their immune systems weaken, making them more vulnerable to infections. In addition, chronic health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or respiratory illnesses can increase the risk of severe complications from infections like pneumonia or the flu.

Vaccines work by training your immune system to fight specific diseases without making you sick, reducing the likelihood of infection and protecting others around you through herd immunity.

The Most Important Adult Vaccines to Stay Protected

Here are key vaccinations that adults should keep up to date with:

1. Flu Vaccine (Influenza)

• Recommended annually for everyone 6 months and older.

• Reduces risk of flu-related hospitalizations and deaths, especially for seniors and people with chronic health conditions.

2. COVID-19 Vaccine & Boosters

• Helps prevent severe illness and hospitalization.

• New formulations are updated regularly to target the latest variants.

3. Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)

• Protects against three serious bacterial infections.

• One-time dose as an adult, with a tetanus booster every 10 years.

4. Hepatitis A & B

• Protects your liver from viral infections that can lead to chronic liver disease or cancer.

• Especially important for people with certain medical conditions or those traveling to regions with high rates of hepatitis.

5. MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)

• Recommended for adults who did not get vaccinated as children.

• Measles outbreaks have resurged in the U.S. due to vaccine hesitancy.

6. Pneumococcal (Pneumonia) Vaccine

• Essential for adults 65+ and people with certain health risks (diabetes, asthma, COPD).

• Prevents pneumonia, bloodstream infections, and meningitis caused by pneumococcus bacteria.

7. Shingles (Herpes Zoster) Vaccine

• Recommended for adults 50+.

• Prevents shingles and postherpetic neuralgia (long-term nerve pain).

8. HPV (Human Papillomavirus) Vaccine

• Recommended for adults up to age 26 and, in some cases, up to 45.

• Protects against cancers caused by HPV, including cervical and throat cancers.

9. Chickenpox (Varicella) Vaccine

• For adults who never had chickenpox or the vaccine as a child.

• Prevents serious complications like bacterial infections of the skin, pneumonia, or brain swelling.

The Cost Barrier: Why Many Skip Vaccines

Unfortunately, many adults delay or skip vaccines due to misconceptions about cost. In Los Angeles County, uninsured or underinsured populations—especially immigrants, seniors, and people experiencing homelessness—face challenges accessing affordable healthcare.

At Aviva Pharmacy, we see this firsthand. Many of our patients are surprised to learn that they can receive vaccines at little to no cost through government programs, patient assistance funds, or sliding-scale pricing.

How Aviva Pharmacy Helps1. Free & Low-Cost Vaccine Programs

• We participate in federal and state-funded programs offering no-cost or reduced-price vaccines to eligible adults.

• We work with patients who are uninsured, houseless, or facing financial hardship.

2. Walk-Ins Welcome—No Insurance Required

• Unlike many clinics, you don’t need an appointment or insurance to get vaccinated at Aviva.

• We welcome patients from all walks of life and provide care in both English and Spanish.

3. Mobile Vaccine Clinics

• For underserved populations, including seniors in residential care facilities, people experiencing homelessness, or individuals with mobility challenges, we partner with local organizations like St. Barnabas Senior Services and Velnon Art to deliver vaccines directly where they are needed—on the street or at home.

4. Compassionate Care with a Local Focus

• Aviva isn’t a national chain. We’re a community-focused pharmacy in Long Beach, and we pride ourselves on treating every patient with care and respect.

• Our team understands the specific health barriers LA County residents face and works to reduce them.

What If I Don’t Have an ID or Insurance?

You don’t need an ID or insurance to get vaccinated at Aviva Pharmacy. We’ll work with you to make sure you can access the vaccines you need. Simply walk in and ask about our free and low-cost vaccine options.

Why Is This Important Now?

As of 2025, vaccine-preventable illnesses are making a resurgence due to misinformation, vaccine hesitancy, and barriers to healthcare access. Measles outbreaks, rising flu-related hospitalizations, and COVID-19 surges continue to affect vulnerable populations disproportionately.

Vaccinating adults is one of the most effective ways to reduce community spread, protect the elderly, and lower healthcare costs for everyone.

Ready to Protect Yourself?

Whether you need a yearly flu shot or are catching up on overdue vaccines, Aviva Pharmacy is here to help. Our team will review your vaccine history and recommend the shots you need based on your age, health status, and lifestyle.

Visit us at Aviva Pharmacy in Long Beach, or contact us today to schedule your free or low-cost vaccines. Your health—and your community—depends on it.