Protect Your Kids: Immunize Them

By Rebeca Boyte, health educator, California Department of Health Services, and Dr. Eileen Yamada, adolescent health expert
Originally posted Jan. 19, 2007

When they were little, you made sure they looked twice before crossing the street.
You made them wear their bicycle helmet, even though they complained.
You taught them not to talk to strangers.
As parents, you have always been concerned about the health and safety of your children.

Now that adolescence has swooped in, and your preteens are busy running between school and social events, you’re not always there to hold their hands. While you can’t protect your children from everything, one thing you can do is to protect them from serious diseases by getting them immunized. Immunizations are safe, effective and a simple way to prevent serious diseases that easily can spread through schools and the community.

The following vaccines are now recommended for 11-and 12-year-olds:

- Meningococcal vaccine to protect against meningitis and other related infections
- HPV three-dose series for girls to prevent cervical cancer in adulthood
- Tetanus booster (Tdap) that also protects against whooping chough
- Second Varicella booster (if your child has never had chickenpox disease and only received one dose previously)
- Influenza immunization for anyone who needs protection from the flu

Most people who receive a vaccine have no side effects or only mild reactions, like soreness at the injection site. Take the time to review the “Vaccine Information Statement” supplied at your child’s preteen doctor visit. Try to assure your children that a shot may prevent lots of pain in the future.

In order to promote preteen shots, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has declared the week of January 21-27, 2007, “Preteen Vaccine Week.” Events will take place across California to urge families of preteens to schedule a preteen doctor visit.

Immunizations are preteens’ best shot! Parents: Schedule your child’s preteen doctor visit today!

For more information, visit www.GetImmunizedCA.org or www.CDC.gov/nip.