I have no idea when I last got a tetanus shot. But I just learned that I need a vaccine called Tdap, a three-in-one vaccination for tetanus, diptheria, and pertussis, every 10 years. Even if I was immunized as a kid against these diseases, I still need the shot. So do all other adults.

I never knew adults needed shots. Until now.

Apparently, about 50,000 to 70,000 adults in the United States die each year of diseases that are preventable by vaccine. It seems it's time we keep track of what we need, and when we need it. So here are some grown-up guidelines for those vaccinations we should not let pass us by.

Hepatitis B

If you've had a sexually-transmitted disease and/or are not in a monogamous relationship, you need this shot. If you have more than one sexual partner in a six-month period, you need this shot. It's given in three doses over several months and protects against liver disease caused by the hepatitis B virus. The virus is spread by sex with an infected partner or exposure to an infected person's blood.

Influenza

All adults 50 and older, pregnant women, and adults with a chronic health condition such as heart disease need this vaccine. Flu kills thousands of people each year and can lead to serious complications, like pneumonia or heart problems. The vaccine helps protect against strains of influenza expected to circulate during the year the injection or nasal spray is given.

Herpes Zoster

Adults 60 and older should get this one-time vaccine -- it protects against shingles and chickenpox -- because a reactivation of the virus is more common in this age group.

Pneumococcal

Adults 65 and older and those who have a chronic health condition, are immunocompromised, or are missing their spleen should seek out this vaccine. If you've already had this shot, ask your doctor about a booster.

Tdap

This is the one I referenced above. All adults need it.