As kids get older, they are at increased risk for some infections. Plus the protection provided by some of the childhood vaccines begins to wear off, so kids need a booster dose. There are four recommended vaccines that preteens should get when they are 11 - 12 years old. Plus, it’s not too late to get any shots they may have missed. You can use any health care visit, including sports physicals or some sick visits, to get the shots your kids need. The vaccines for preteens and teens are:
- HPV vaccine for both boys and girls, which protects against the types of HPV that most commonly cause cancer.
- Tdap vaccine, which is a booster against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis.
- Meningococcal vaccine, which protects against meningococcal disease.
- Influenza (flu) vaccine, because even healthy kids can get the flu, and it can be serious.
Want to learn more about the vaccines for preteens and teens? Check out CDC.gov/vaccines/teens or call 1-800-CDC-INFO.
As always, please consult with your health care provider with any questions or concerns.