Vaccines for Children

Getting vaccinated before returning to school is an important step in ensuring the health and safety of students and the community. While the specific vaccine requirements may vary depending on the country, region, or school, there are several common vaccines that are typically recommended for school-aged children and adolescents. These vaccines help protect against various diseases and promote overall public health.

Below are some commonly required or recommended vaccines for school-aged children. For the 2023 school year, follow the CDC's Recommended Child and Adolescent Immunization Chart and contact your child's primary care provider to schedule immunizations.

  1. Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine: This vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, which are highly contagious viral infections. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are usually required, with the first dose given at 12-15 months and the second dose given at 4-6 years of age.

  2. Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP/Tdap) vaccine: The DTaP vaccine protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (whooping cough). The Tdap vaccine is a booster shot given to adolescents around the age of 11-12. These vaccines are usually given in a series of doses during early childhood.

  3. Polio vaccine: The inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV) is typically administered as part of the routine childhood immunization schedule. It helps protect against polio, a highly infectious viral disease that can cause paralysis.

  4. Hepatitis B vaccine: Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver. The vaccine is usually given as a series of three doses, with the first dose administered at birth and subsequent doses given over the first six to 18 months of life.

  5. Varicella (Chickenpox) vaccine: This vaccine protects against chickenpox, a highly contagious viral infection. It is typically administered in two doses, with the first dose given at 12-15 months and the second dose given at 4-6 years of age.

  6. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine: The HPV vaccine helps protect against certain strains of the human papillomavirus, which can lead to cervical cancer, genital warts, and other types of cancer. It is usually recommended for both boys and girls around the age of 11-12, although it can be given as early as 9 years of age.

It's important to note that vaccination requirements may vary depending on the country, state, or school district. It is recommended to consult with your healthcare provider or check with the school or relevant authorities to get accurate and up-to-date information regarding the specific vaccination requirements for returning to school.

 


References:

https://www.cdc.gov/hpv/index.html