New Back-to-School Immunizations: Whooping Cough, Meningitis, HPV

Teens and tweens headed back to school this fall may need some new immunizations. Most parents expect shots to be a part of Kindergarten school preparations. It's easy to forget older kids need boosters and special shots, too. This year there are a number of health issues prompting serious protection for teens and tweens. Back to school check-ups and immunizations should include older kids.

Recent cases of Whooping Cough beg vaccine boosters for older children. Kids have always needed Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) shots at age 11. Now outbreaks of whooping cough (pertussis) make this recommendation vital to adhere to. A cough may not sound like much. Remember, whooping cough is violent enough to pull stomach muscles and even break ribs. Experts feel recent outbreaks of this illness are due to parents lapse in obtaining essential booster shots for their teens and tweens. Don't send your older children back to school unprotected.

Meningitis is a rare, but deadly disease. This year, teens and tweens must be vaccinated against it. For unknown reasons, young people are especially susceptible to this frightening illness. Those who contract it can succumb quickly and without warning. Those who survive are often left with permanent brain damage or hearing loss. In addition, they may need limbs amputated to stop the spread of this bloodstream invader.

Getting the HPV vaccine early can help stave off human papillomavirus. This is the virus responsible for many cases of cervical cancer. It's recommended girls begin receiving these shots at age 11. Two boosters is the norm after that. Once girls reach a certain age, the vaccine is no longer effective, so it's vital to start early. Cervical cancer is often untreatable once detected. Get your teen and tween girls vaccinated now to protect them for life. Back-to-school time is the perfect yearly reminder.

Don't let a lack of health insurance stop you. Are your teens and tweens protected? Letting booster shots slide can have serious, sometimes fatal consequences for your children. Check with your local Social Services agency. They can often recommend inexpensive or free immunizations for both children and adults. There are also websites specifically designed to find local clinics. You simply enter your zip code for a clinic near you. Remember, back to school immunizations aren't just for Kindergarteners. Your older children need protection too.

While you're at it, Mom and Dad, how's your health? Remember, parents can carry diseases that impact their kids. Give yourself a yearly back to school check-up. Make sure your parents didn't miss any of your back to school immunizations. Teens and tweens aren't the only ones whose booster shots and health care may have been neglected. Moms and Dads often put kids health before their own. Doing so becomes a health risk for the entire family.

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