Can you get more than one vaccine at a time?

When we think of vaccines, we often imagine a small needle prick... but sometimes there can be two or three at the same appointment. Is it really a good idea to receive multiple vaccines at the same time? Is it safe? And above all, is it recommended for adults? Let's take a look at why co-administration of vaccines is a common, safe, and beneficial practice.

What is co-administration?

Co-administration simply means receiving more than one vaccine during the same appointment. This can mean two vaccines, but sometimes three or more, depending on the situation and the person's health needs.

• Sometimes, certain vaccines are already combined in the same syringe (as is often the case for children).
• In other cases, two or more different vaccines are administered with separate syringes.

Yes, this means more than one shot, but the process is still very quick and safe. The healthcare professional adjusts the technique to make the experience as comfortable as possible. For example, they can space the injections slightly apart when they are given in the same arm.

Why receive multiple vaccines at the same time?

The first reason is simple. It saves time.

Your schedule is often busy, and having to come back several times for different vaccines can be inconvenient. Receiving multiple vaccines in a single session reduces the number of appointments and, therefore, the number of trips.

Co-administration also allows you to take advantage of every opportunity to be well protected. For example:

• When you get your annual flu shot, you can take the opportunity to check whether you need protection against pneumococcus or a tetanus booster.
• Before travelling, you could receive the vaccines required for your destination and those recommended for your age in a single visit.

In a nutshell, you save time, limit oversights, and improve your protection.

Is it safe?

This is probably the most frequently asked question: "Can my body handle several vaccines at once?"

The answer is yes. International organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), as well as Health Canada and the Quebec Immunization Committee (CIQ), support and recommend co-administration.

Here are a few reassuring points:

• Vaccines administered together are just as effective as when given separately.
• Side effects aren’t stronger—typical reactions remain the same (arm soreness, redness, mild fever, or temporary fatigue).
• Healthcare professionals always ensure that the combination of vaccines is safe in your particular situation.

Your immune system is perfectly capable of responding to several vaccines at the same time.

How do you know which vaccines are necessary?

In Quebec, we have a very practical tool: the provincial vaccination registry, a digital tool that replaces the famous "vaccination card." Doctors, pharmacists, and nurses can access it to view your vaccination history. This allows them to quickly see which vaccines you have already received and which ones you need to complete your protection.

Some vaccines require several doses to be fully effective. Others require a booster shot after a few years to maintain a good level of antibodies.

That's why it's a good idea to have your vaccination status checked regularly, for example:

• When you get your flu shot
• Before travelling
• During a health checkup

This way, you avoid missing a booster shot and remain protected in the long term.

The advantages of co-administration

Receiving several vaccines at the same time means:

Saves time

Fewer appointments and many rounds of back and forth

Greater protection

Avoid postponing or forgetting important vaccines

A safe practice

Validated by public health experts

An effective measure

Vaccines work just as well together as they do separately

In conclusion

Co-administering vaccines is a safe, simple, and beneficial practice for both children and adults. It allows you to make the most of each appointment and ensures that you are fully protected without having to make multiple trips.

The next time you go to get your flu shot or a travel vaccine, don't hesitate to ask your healthcare professional to check your other vaccination needs. By combining vaccines, you'll save time, be better protected, and have peace of mind.

After all, the best protection is the one you get at the right time!