What
shots does my preteen or teen need?
Immunizing our adolescents with the vaccines listed below is one thing we can do to protect their health for years to come. Getting a vaccine is like updating the body’s immune system, the same way you might update the software on your phone or computer. When all of us do our part to stay up to date with immunizations, it keeps the entire community network healthy and strong!
Human papillomavirus (HPV)
HPV is a common virus that can cause several cancers in men and women.
HPV vaccine is recommended for kids 9–12 years to help protect against these cancers. For best protection, most kids in this age group will need two shots of HPV vaccine, given 6–12 months apart. Older teens can also get vaccinated against HPV if they missed it when they were younger but may need more shots depending on their age.
Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough) (Tdap)
Getting a Tdap booster shot protects kids from three serious diseases—tetanus,
diphtheria, and
whooping cough (pertussis). Even though people of any age in the United States can catch these diseases, whooping cough is the most common. Preteens and teens who get whooping cough may cough for 10 weeks or more, which can even cause rib fractures from coughing so hard. Kids need Tdap vaccine at age 11 or 12. This vaccine is required for 7th grade entry in California.
Meningococcal disease (MenACWY)
Meningococcal disease, or bacterial meningitis, is very serious. While most people get better from bacterial meningitis, some people with the infection die. Those who do get better can have permanent disabilities, such as brain damage, hearing loss, and learning disabilities. A meningococcal vaccine called MenACWY protects against four types of the bacteria (serogroups A, C, W, and Y) that cause bacterial meningitis. Preteens need to get immunized with MenACWY at 11–12 years and again at age 16.
Teens may also get a meningococcal vaccine called MenB that protects against another type of bacteria (serogroup B) that causes bacterial meningitis. MenB vaccine can be given at 16–18 years. While any teen may choose to get a MenB vaccine, certain preteens and teens should get it if they have specific risk factors. Talk to your healthcare provider to learn more.
Flu (influenza)
Flu is an illness that affects your breathing and is caused by influenza viruses. Flu spreads easily and can make people really sick, especially if they have certain health conditions like asthma. Everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu vaccine every year, ideally by the end of October.
COVID-19
COVID-19 mostly causes symptoms that can feel like a cold, the flu, or pneumonia. Most people with COVID-19 have mild symptoms, but some people can get very sick. COVID-19 vaccines can help protect against serious illness in adolescents with certain risk factors. Talk to your health provider to learn more about the COVID vaccine.
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