Keep your teen healthy: Don't miss these important vaccines.
Posted 08/05/26
As your child enters their teens, staying up to date on vaccinations is one of the best ways to protect their health.
Vaccines help prevent serious diseases and keep your child healthy at school, home, and in the community.
By age 13, your child should receive these recommended vaccines:
Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis)
One dose at ages 11–12
This vaccine protects against three serious diseases, including whooping cough (pertussis), which spreads easily and can cause severe illness.
Meningococcal (MenACWY)
One dose at ages 11–12
Meningococcal disease can cause meningitis and bloodstream infections. Although uncommon, it can become life-threatening very quickly.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
Complete the HPV vaccine series by age 13
When the vaccine series is started before age 15, most children need two doses. The HPV vaccine helps prevent several types of cancer later in life, including cervical, throat, anal, penile, vulvar, and vaginal cancers.
Why are these vaccines important?
Vaccines:
- Protect your child from serious illnesses.
- Help prevent the spread of disease to others.
- Reduce the risk of hospitalization.
- Can prevent certain cancers later in life.
What should parents do?
- Schedule your child's annual well-child visit at ages 11–12.
- Ask your provider if your child is up to date on recommended vaccines.
- If your child missed a vaccine, ask about a catch-up schedule. It's not too late to get protected.
A few minutes at your child's checkup can provide protection that lasts a lifetime.
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