The Swiss vaccination schedule
Every year, the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) and the Federal Commission for Vaccination publish the Swiss vaccination schedule. It sets out the vaccines recommended by age and situation. It is the reference for your doctor and your pharmacist.
Diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough
For adults vaccinated as children, the recommended boosters are:
- between the ages of 25 and 29: a single booster that also protects against whooping cough (pertussis);
- then: a diphtheria-tetanus booster every 20 years, for example at 45 and 65;
- from age 65: a booster every 10 years.
A booster may be recommended earlier after a wound with a risk of tetanus. A whooping cough booster is also advised in every pregnancy, and for people in regular contact with babies under 6 months if their last vaccination was 10 or more years ago.
Other vaccines to discuss with your doctor
Depending on your age, health, job or travel plans, other vaccines may be recommended: seasonal flu, pneumococcus, shingles, hepatitis B, measles if you have not had two doses, tick-borne encephalitis… The vaccination schedule describes these recommendations in detail. Your doctor will tell you which apply to you.
Checking your vaccination record
- Find your vaccination record (paper or electronic).
- Bring it to your next appointment with your family doctor.
- If it is lost, your doctor can advise you on which boosters to have; a blood test can sometimes check your immunity.
In many cantons, some vaccines are also available at pharmacies. Whether costs are covered depends on the vaccine and your situation: ask your doctor, pharmacist or health insurer.
Key points
- Diphtheria-tetanus: booster between 25 and 29 (with whooping cough), then at 45 and 65, then every 10 years.
- Whooping cough: booster advised in every pregnancy.
- Your doctor tailors the recommendations to your situation.
This article provides general information. It does not replace the advice of a doctor or health professional. Reimbursement rules may change: your health insurer can tell you about your contract. In an emergency, call 144.