Immunizations for Tweens and Teens
Each state has its own immunization requirements. Most ask for written proof of a student's immunizations from a doctor or clinic before you can sign your child up for school. Next to clean drinking water, immunizations have been called one of the most important public health interventions in history. They have saved millions of lives.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) both suggest vaccines for older children, including:
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, also known as the cervical cancer vaccine. It is recommended for all girls and is given in three doses.
- Meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV4)
- Tetanus-diphtheria — tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (Tdap) vaccine
- Influenza vaccine, which is recommended annually
When your child sees his or her physician, be sure to ask him or her to check for any shots that may have been missed. If your child has not received all the recommended shots or has started late, the CDC has a catch-up timeline 
.
Download the Children’s Wellness Guidelines flier 
or an immunization schedule from the CDC to keep on top of vaccinations. Note that the recommendations are based on a child's age and are updated from time to time.
This article is not meant to replace a doctor's advice. Be sure to talk to your doctor about immunizations you may need.
