Do I need to get vaccinated if I stay at home for a long time and don't go out?

Dec 12, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Feng
Introduction
In general, whether long-term stay-at-home individuals need vaccination depends on the type of vaccine and their exposure risk. Vaccines for primary immunization are usually recommended to be administered on schedule, while some non-essential vaccines can be chosen based on individual needs. To ensure proper health protection, it is advisable to review one's vaccination history and assess the need for vaccines according to potential exposures during the period at home. Maintain good hygiene practices, keep living areas clean, and ensure regular ventilation.

In general, whether long-term homebound individuals need vaccinations depends on the type of vaccine and their exposure risks. Vaccines for primary immunization are usually recommended to be administered on schedule, while some non-essential vaccines can be chosen based on individual needs. A detailed analysis is as follows:

For vaccines against highly transmissible diseases, such as the COVID-19 or influenza vaccines, vaccination is still recommended even for those staying at home long-term if there is potential indirect exposure—for example, through family members going outdoors or receiving deliveries—as this helps reduce infection risk. Childhood routine immunizations should especially be completed on time to ensure health protection during development.

For vaccines targeting specific situations, such as rabies or tetanus vaccines, individuals who remain at home long-term and face no relevant exposure risks—such as no contact with animals or no open wounds—typically do not need to receive these vaccines proactively. These vaccines should only be considered when actual exposure risks arise.

To maintain good health protection, it is advisable to review one's vaccination history and assess personal exposure risks during periods of staying at home. Maintaining household cleanliness, ensuring regular ventilation, and practicing proper disinfection after family members return from outside can collectively help reduce the likelihood of infections.