At SouthCoast Health, we prioritize the health and well-being of your children by providing comprehensive immunization services. Vaccinations are a crucial part of pediatric care, protecting your child from various preventable diseases. Here’s an overview of the recommended vaccines for different age groups:
Infants and Toddlers (Birth to 2 Years)
During the first two years, your child will receive several essential vaccines to build strong immunity early on:
- Hepatitis B: Protects against hepatitis B virus infection.
- Rotavirus: Prevents rotavirus, which can cause severe diarrhea.
- Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP): Shields against these serious bacterial infections.
- Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib): Prevents Hib infections that can lead to meningitis.
- Pneumococcal Conjugate (PCV13): Protects against pneumococcal diseases.
- Inactivated Poliovirus (IPV): Prevents polio.
- Influenza: Annual flu shots to protect against seasonal flu.
- Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR): Combined vaccine against these three viral infections.
- Varicella: Protects against chickenpox.
- Hepatitis A: Protects against hepatitis A virus infection.
Early Childhood (3 to 6 Years)
As your child grows, booster shots ensure continued protection:
- DTaP Booster: Continued protection against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.
- IPV Booster: Maintains immunity against polio.
- Influenza: Annual flu shots.
- MMR Booster: Ensures lasting immunity against measles, mumps, and rubella.
- Varicella Booster: Sustains protection against chickenpox.
School-Age Children (7 to 12 Years)
Before starting school, additional vaccines and boosters are crucial:
- DTaP Booster: Another booster to extend protection.
- HPV Vaccine: Protects against human papillomavirus, recommended starting at age 11.
- Meningococcal Vaccine: Protects against meningococcal disease.
- Influenza: Annual flu shots.
Adolescents (13 to 18 Years)
As your child approaches adulthood, maintaining vaccinations is essential:
- Tdap Booster: A booster to protect against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis.
- HPV Series Completion: Ensures full protection against HPV.
- Meningococcal Booster: Further protection against meningococcal disease.
- Influenza: Annual flu shots.
Immunizations are vital to protect your child from serious illnesses. Vaccines are safe, thoroughly tested, and monitored for side effects. Keeping up with the recommended vaccination schedule ensures your child remains healthy and contributes to community immunity.
For more information or to schedule your child’s immunization appointments, please contact us or visit our office.
