Extra: Vaccinations for Teens

Immunizations aren’t just for little kids - did you know teens need several important vaccines to be protected against diseases? Georgia law requires immunizations for children and teens in school and college. There are also new vaccines that may not be required yet, but are still recommended to keep teens healthy.

One of the new vaccinations you should consider is the HPV vaccine, which can help protect young women against cervical cancer. Click here to read more about the HPV vaccine.

→ Click here for a chart outlining the vaccination needs of pre-teens and teens.
If you or your child has missed any shots, consult the catch-up schedule and check with your doctor or health department about getting back on track.

Important Note! The vaccination requirements for children in Georgia changed in 2007! Is your child up to date?
Vaccine requirements have been expanded for children in Georgia to better protect them against many diseases. The Georgia Department of Human Resources Board recently approved the additions, following the recommendations of several physician advisory committees. The new rules took effect July 1, 2007, and will affect all children attending childcare, Pre-K, Head Start and school facilities.

Summary of new requirements for children entering 6th grade:
-Have two (2) doses of Measles vaccine, two (2) doses of Mumps vaccine, and one (1) dose of Rubella vaccine or laboratory proof of immunity against Measles, Mumps or Rubella.
-Have two (2) doses of Varicella (chicken pox) vaccine or documentation of disease or laboratory proof of immunity. At the time your child entered school only one (1) dose of this vaccine was required.

If you have questions about the new requirements, read this list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers. You may also contact your county health department or your child's healthcare provider. Be sure to retain a copy of your child’s immunizations from your doctor or health department in case of an emergency.

Visit the Immunization Action Coalition’s page on teen immunizations http://www.vaccineinformation.org/adolescents.asp for more information.

WWW Address: http://www.gachd.org/extra/vaccinations_for_teens.php