In the heat of the summer, it is hard to think of back-to-school doctor’s visits and shots, but now is the best time to come in – before the August rush!
Sports physicals and immunization updates need to be done before the fall term starts, or the late summer practices begin.
Elementary School
Of course, new kindergarteners need boosters for most of their baby shots before they start school. Of particular importance is the second dose of measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine, because there have been more cases of measles in the United States this year than any year since the early ‘90s when we had our last measles epidemic in Houston.
Most measles are imported from outside the U.S., but there has been ongoing transmission in places like Florida. Don’t bring measles home as your vacation souvenir!
Other vaccines given at age 4 to 6 include Varicella (V) vaccine, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, and polio. Combination vaccines exist, so the number of shots is fewer than the number of vaccines! In late August, influenza vaccine will likely also be available, and should be given as soon as your doctor’s office has it.
Children younger than 9 years old who have not had flu vaccine will need two doses, spaced one month apart. Catch-up immunizations for other vaccines and vaccines for children with certain health problems may also be offered.
Middle School
Entering middle schoolers in Texas need to show proof of having received two doses of MMR and varicella vaccines, as well as a booster for tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (Tdap), and a meningococcal meningitis vaccine. They should also get the flu vaccine as soon as it comes out and the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to prevent certain types of cancer, though these vaccines aren’t required for school entry.
High School and College
A booster dose of the meningitis vaccine is now recommended at age 16 for adolescents who received a dose at age 11 or 12, and at least one dose of the vaccine is required for college entry in Texas, regardless of the student’s age.
College
College students should also make sure they have had two doses of the MMR, and a tetanus booster if it has been 10 years since their last one. They should get the Tdap version if they have never had it. If it hasn’t been given earlier, it is a great time for students entering high school or college to reconsider the HPV vaccine and to make sure that all three doses have been received.
Immunizations are one of the most significant things you can do to ensure a long, healthy life for your kids. Make sure they are kept up-to-date not only with required vaccines, but with other recommended vaccines.
School entry requirements generally lag behind recent recommendations. Newly available vaccines and new recommendations for old vaccines come out often, and everyone should check to see if they are due for vaccines at every doctor’s visit.
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