Between the ages of 7 and 18, children and teenagers require several essential vaccines for their protection.
These vaccines are crucial in preventing severe health issues such as infertility, muscle paralysis, brain damage, blindness, deafness, and cancer.
Medical authorities like the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend a specific schedule for these immunizations based on two key factors:
The optimal effectiveness of the vaccine with the child or teen's immune system at that age.
The critical need for protection during this period.
If your preteen or teen has missed any vaccinations, it's essential to consult their pediatrician to ensure they are fully protected. Vaccines not only safeguard your child but also contribute to the safety of others, which is why all states mandate vaccination for school or childcare attendance.
Here's an overview of the recommended vaccines for preteens, teens, and young adults and the diseases they guard against:
Meningococcal Vaccine: Administered around age 11 or 12, this vaccine protects against several bacterial strains labeled A, B, C, W, and Y. There are different types available, such as MenACWY, MenB, and MenABCWY, depending on specific health conditions or age groups.
Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis Booster (Tdap): Given at age 11 or 12, this booster defends against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough. Subsequent booster doses are necessary every 10 years.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine: This vaccine, recommended between ages 9-12, protects against various cancers caused by HPV, including cervical, penile, anal, mouth, and throat cancers, as well as genital warts.
Influenza (Flu) Vaccine: Recommended annually for everyone aged 6 months and older, including teens, the flu shot is highly effective in preventing severe cases of influenza that may require hospitalization.
COVID-19 Vaccine: Safe and effective, the COVID-19 vaccine is crucial for protecting teenagers and younger children from long-term complications associated with the virus.
For those who are behind on vaccinations, it's important to catch up on recommended immunizations like hepatitis A and B, polio, pneumococcal vaccine, measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, and chickenpox (varicella) vaccine.
Many colleges and universities require students to be vaccinated, so it's advisable to check these requirements before heading off to college.
Overall, these recommended vaccines not only safeguard older children and teens but also contribute to the broader community's safety, potentially saving lives in the process.