Another summer has passed and the kids keep growing. One of the sure ways to keep our children healthy is to immunize them according to their age-specific needs. We all know about the dreaded kindergarten shot…and then we feel we are done. But not so fast! There still are serious diseases out there than can threaten the health of our children and they can be protected with a simple vaccine.Here are the ones to keep in mind:
tDaP – This is the vaccine to boost children against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (otherwise known as whooping cough). These booster shots do just that, they boost the child’s immune response to be able fight against these illnesses that are still lurking. This booster is given between the ages of 11 and 15 years.
Meningitis –Neisseria meningitides bacterium can cause a particular type of meningitis (an inflammation of the lining of the brain) in the very young but also in high school and college students. This can be a quickly devastating illness. Anyone over age 11 should receive this vaccine.
HPV – Human Papiloma Virus – This is a relatively new vaccine that is being offered to adolescents – males and females - to prevent genital warts and cervical cancer in females. It consists of a series of three doses and should be completed in six months and before the teen leaves for college. Teenagers should receive this vaccine before initiating sexual activity. (Note: This does not mean we endorse this behavior in any way!)
Influenza – The year influenza vaccine for the year 2010 is now available for all children 6 months and over. This year, the vaccine includes two strains of the H1N1 virus that were present last year. For children 2 years and over, there is a flu mist vaccine; a gentle intranasal spray with an attenuated virus that give protection for the upcoming flu season. For children 6 months and older, there is a dead virus in an injectable, preservative-free vaccine.
As our children grow and life changes continue to occur, let’s give them the best possible health foundation for their future.
Stay tuned for our Fall newsletter coming soon (be sure to sign up now at www.healthychats.com if you haven’t already). In the meantime, keep your child healthy and stay involved in their lives!
Wishing you a fun & successful school year,
Dr. Chrystal de Freitas
