Recommended Immunizations
Recommended Immunizations for children ages 11 to 13
New: Human Papillomavirus Vaccine (HPV)
HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States and most cases of cervical cancer are associated with previous HPV infection. The new HPV vaccine reduces infection from four strains of HPV – 6, 11 (warts), 16, and 18 (cervical cancer). These recommendations are designed to promote vaccination before sexual activity begins.
- The HPV vaccine is recommended for females ages 9 – 26.
- Routine HPV vaccination is recommended for girls aged 11 – 12 years.
- Girls as young as 9 years old may receive the vaccine.
- Females 13 – 26 should receive a “catch-up” vaccine, even if they have been sexually active.
- The HPV vaccine is not currently recommended for women over age 26.
- Females with a previous history of HPV can benefit because the vaccine can prevent infection from other HPV strains they have not contracted.
- Females should continue routine Pap screenings regardless of whether they have gotten the HPV vaccine. The vaccine does not protect against all strains of HPV.
- Three injections are required for protection. It has not been established whether booster shots will be required.
Tetanus and Diptheria Toxoids and Acellular Pertussis (Tdap)
Recommended for children ages 11 – 12, who have completed the recommended childhood DTP/DTaP vaccination series and have not received a Td booster dose. Adolescents ages, 13 – 18 who missed the 11 – 12 year Td/Tdap booster dose should also receive a single dose of Tdap if they have completed the recommended childhood DTP/DTaP vaccination series.
Meningococcal Meningitis
Children at the 11 – 12 year old visit, unvaccinated adolescents entering high school, or soon-to-be college freshmen living in dormitories.
Catch-Up Vaccines
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
If not previously vaccinated, two doses of MMR during any visit four or more weeks between the doses.
Hepatitis B
Three doses, if child has not received the complete Hepatitis B series.
Varicella
Two doses to adolescents younger than 13 years at least three months apart; four weeks apart for adolescent 13 or older; two doses to individuals without evidence of immunity.
Inactivated Poliovirus (IPV)
If your child started late or is greater than one month behind, please discuss a catch-up immunization schedule with your health care provider.
Certain High Risk Groups
Influenza
Annually for children with certain risk factors.*
Pneumococcal
Recommended if your adolescent has a chronic condition such as asthma, among others.*
Hepatitis A
Two doses at least six months apart. Hepatitis A is recommended for certain other groups of children, including in areas where vaccination programs target older children.
