Schools — from preschools to colleges — usually have lists of required vaccines. Here’s a list of vaccines for teens.
Core vaccines for teens
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides recommended immunization schedules for children and adolescents to protect them from various serious diseases. While specific recommendations can vary based on individual health factors, prior vaccination history, and certain risk factors, there are core vaccines generally recommended for teenagers, typically starting around age 11-12.
- Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and acellular Pertussis): This booster protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). It’s typically given around 11-12 years old. After this, a Tdap or Td (tetanus and diphtheria) booster is recommended every 10 years.
- Meningococcal ACWY (MenACWY): This vaccine protects against specific types of meningococcal disease, which can cause serious infections like meningitis (inflammation of the brain and spinal cord lining) and bloodstream infections. The first dose is usually given at 11-12 years, with a booster dose at 16 years.
- Meningococcal B (MenB): This vaccine protects against serogroup B meningococcal disease. It’s recommended for some teens (preferably 16-23 years) and those with certain health conditions, and may be given to any teen who wants protection from this disease.
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus): The HPV vaccine protects against various cancers caused by HPV infection, including cervical, anal, and throat cancers. It’s routinely recommended for children at 11-12 years, and given as a 2-dose series. If the series is started at age 15 or older, a 3-dose series is recommended.
- Influenza (Flu) Vaccine: An annual flu shot is recommended for everyone 6 months and older, including teens. This helps protect against seasonal influenza.
- COVID-19 Vaccine: All teens should be protected from COVID-19, and the vaccine is recommended. Recommendations for primary series and booster doses can vary, so it’s best to check the latest CDC guidance.
Catch-Up Vaccines
Teens may also need to catch up on vaccines they might have missed in childhood.
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella): Typically a 2-dose series. Measles cases (and deaths) are on the rise in the United States.
- Varicella (Chickenpox): Typically a 2-dose series if they haven’t had chickenpox or been vaccinated.
- Hepatitis A (HepA) and Hepatitis B (HepB): These require a series of doses.
- Polio (IPV): Polio vaccines also require a series of doses. If your teen hasn’t completed the series, they will need to finish them up.
Your pediatrician can help schedule a catch-up plan if your teen has quite a few immunizations to get through before school starts.
