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Back to School Vaccines
What Parents Need to Know at Every Age
As the school year approaches, there’s more to think about than just backpacks and school supplies—it's also the perfect time to make sure your child is up to date on their recommended vaccines. Immunizations are a safe and effective way to protect children from preventable diseases, and schools often require proof of certain vaccinations before students can enroll. Here’s a breakdown of the key vaccines recommended for kids at different school-age milestones.
Ages 4 to 6: The “Kindergarten Vaccines”
Children ages 4 to 6 typically receive a final round of vaccines before entering elementary school. These vaccines are essential for reinforcing protection that began during early childhood. While no new vaccines are introduced at this stage, several important booster shots are due.
In many cases, vaccines are given in combination to reduce the number of injections needed. For example:
- DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis) and IPV (polio) can be combined.
- MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) and varicella (chickenpox) can also be given in one shot.
Recommended vaccines for ages 4–6:
- DTaP: Final (5th) dose to protect against diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough.
- IPV: Final (4th) dose in the polio vaccine series.
- MMR: Second dose to ensure lasting immunity against measles, mumps, and rubella.
- Varicella: Second and final dose for protection against chickenpox.
Ages 11 to 12: The “Middle School Shots”
As kids enter their preteen years, they face new health risks. Vaccines at this age help protect against diseases that become more common, or more serious, during adolescence. This is also the age when a Tdap booster is needed to reinforce earlier childhood immunizations.
Recommended vaccines for ages 11–12:
- Tdap: Booster dose for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. This vaccine is specifically formulated for older kids and adults.
- MenACWY: First dose of the meningococcal conjugate vaccine, which protects against four strains of bacteria that cause meningitis.
- HPV: First dose of the human papillomavirus vaccine, which helps prevent several types of cancers later in life. If the series is started before age 15, only two doses are needed (given 6 to 12 months apart). Note: You can start the HPV vaccine series as young as 9 years old.
Ages 16 to 18: Final Teen Vaccines
High school students preparing for graduation, college, or other future plans may need one last round of immunizations. These vaccines provide critical protection as teens begin living and socializing more independently.
Recommended vaccines for ages 16–18:
- MenACWY: A second and final dose of the meningococcal vaccine is recommended at age 16.
- MenB: The meningococcal B vaccine may be recommended in certain situations—such as during a campus outbreak or if required by a college. It is given in two doses, and the timing of the second dose depends on the brand.
Don’t Wait – Schedule Your Child’s Immunizations Today
Your child’s annual wellness exam or back-to-school checkup is the ideal time to review their vaccination schedule. Staying on top of immunizations helps keep your child, and the entire school community,safe and healthy.
If you're unsure whether your child is up to date, contact our clinic. We’re here to help make sure your student starts the school year protected and ready to learn!
Lindsey Sell, LPN