Waushara County Health News

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Preteen/Teen Vaccines

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We often relate vac-cinations with babies, but as children grow up, they come in contact with a variety of different diseases. Knowing the vaccines available to help protect your preteen/teen can make discussion with your physician quick and easy. 

Tdap Vaccine protects a-gainst tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (whooping cough). It is recommended at age 11 or 12 and is a school required vaccine before entering 6th grade.

Meningococcal Vaccine protects against bacteria that can cause meningitis and septicemia.  It is also recommended at age 11 or 12, with a second dose at age 16. 

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine protects boys and girls from HPV infection and cancer caused by HPV. Anyone age 11-26 may receive the vaccine. Two or three doses of the vaccine are recommended. 

Flu Vaccine offers pro-tection from influenza. It is recommended yearly, and highly encouraged for those with chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease. Administration starts in October every year. 

Now is a great time to schedule your preteen/teen for a yearly physical and discuss what vaccines are needed. Additional information on these vaccines can be found at www.cdc.gov/vaccines/teens.

Waushara County Health Department provides vac-cines for children ages 18 years and younger who are uninsured, Medicaid-eligible, American Indian or Alaska Native; through the Vaccine for Children program. To schedule an appointment, call (920) 787-6590.