You have so many things on your mind when you're getting your kids and yourself ready for back-to-school time. Backpacks, school supplies, clothes, shoes, carpooling, bus and activity schedules and more, fill your mind like a tornado of information. Sorry Moms and Dads, there might be something else to add to that pile of stuff.

Is your child fully vaccinated? Dr. Alanna Levine from the American Academy of Pediatrics, is just one of the doctors reminding parents about shots your child needs to protect themselves and other children from diseases which can spread illness and even cause death.

There are four recommended vaccinations for your teenagers:

  1. TDAP - This is the adult booster of the tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis shot elementary school kids get.They suggest it for all 11 to 12 year olds.
  2. Meningitis - If a child got a dose at 11 or 12 they suggest a booster for teens in high school. Meningitis can be deadly at worst or disabling at best.
  3. Flu - This one is recommended not just for teens, but for everyone.
  4. HPV - Yes, there is still controversy which rages over this one, but most adults are eventually exposed to these viruses. The human papillomavirus is the major cause of cervical cancer in the U.S. and it kills 4,000 women a year and also causes cancers in men.

In case you're wondering, all these vaccinations should be free.

For more information on this subject go to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) website and I also found this article from Today very informative.


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