Adolescent Immunization

Many people think that immunizations are just for babies. But, in reality, there are many people between the ages of 11-18 who are at risk of getting serious diseases including measles, tetanus, hepatitis B, hepatitis A and chickenpox. Protecting your health is a lifelong job. Getting immunized is one way to be protected now. Talk to your healthcare provider about what immunizations you may need.

Fast Facts on Adolescent Immunizations

High rates of hepatitis A infection occur among children and adolescents 5 to 14 years old who live in some parts of the United States, and most cases can be attributed to person-to-person transmission.
The majority of new cases of hepatitis B reported each year strike adolescents and young adults. The hepatitis B virus is 100 times more infectious than HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.
Hepatitis B can be spread by sharing needles or razors; through intimate contact; and by tattooing or body piercing with unsterile equipment. But, nearly one-third of teens become infected without knowing how they got the disease.
Adolescents and adults are considered reservoirs for pertussis. A single dose of the tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis (Tdap) vaccine is recommended at 11-18 years of age. A tetanus/diphtheria (Td) vaccine is recommended every ten years thereafter.

Adolescent Immunization

Fast Facts on Adolescent Immunizations

For more information, visit the following links under Adolescent Immunization.