Immunizations: What’s New?
Over the last several years the
Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has made several new
recommendations regarding childhood and adolescent immunizations. Two of these changes have become a part of the Wisconsin Immunization Law and are required for school attendance. Other changes are recommendations and have not become a part of the Wisconsin Immunization Law.
REQUIRED IMMUNIZATIONS
Varicella Vaccine (Chickenpox Vaccine): Two doses of varicella vaccine are now required for all students in grades kindergarten through twelve. The first dose is given at 12-15 months of age and the second dose is given at 4-6 years of age. Many children have experienced a mild form of the chickenpox disease even after being vaccinated with the varicella vaccine. It is now known that one dose of vaccine may not give adequate immunity to all children. If your school-age child has been given one dose of the varicella vaccine, a second dose is required. (Exception: If a child has had the chickenpox disease, vaccination is not required.)
Tetanus, diphtheria, acellular pertussis (Tdap): This single dose of vaccine takes the place of the tetanus (Td) vaccine at age 11-12 years and is required for students in grades six through twelve. It can be given if 5 years have elapsed since the last DTap/DTP dose (kindergarten shots). This vaccine helps to protect against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (whooping cough). It is often referred to as a “booster” dose since it boosts the immune system from previous DTP/DTap doses. Only one booster dose is necessary. After receiving the Tdap vaccine, a booster with the Td vaccine is recommended every 10 years.
RECOMMENDED IMMUNIZATIONS
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine: This is a three dose series of vaccine given to girls and boys at age 11-12 years to protect against diseases caused by the human papillomavirus. This vaccine can prevent most cases of cervical cancer in females, if it is given before exposure to the virus. In addition, it can prevent other cancers in both males and females. The second and third doses of vaccine should be administered 2 and 6 months after the first dose. This vaccine is recommended for the following people who have not completed the 3-dose series: Females age 13 through 26 years of age; Males age 13 through 21 years of age.
Hepatitis A: This is a two dose series of vaccine that is given to protect against the Hepatitis A infection. The first dose is given at 12-23 months old and the second dose is given 6 months later. Hepatitis A is a viral infection that causes inflammation of the liver. The virus is often transmitted by drinking contaminated water or eating food that has been contaminated by an infected person. It is recommended that all children ages 2 years and older be vaccinated.
Meningococcal Vaccine: Two doses of vaccine are recommended for adolescents 11 through 18 years of age: the first dose at 11 or 12 years of age, with a booster dose at age 16. This vaccine protects against meningococcal disease, a cause of bacterial meningitis and blood infections. If the first dose is given after the 16th birthday, a booster dose is not needed.
Visit the following websites for more information: www.cdc.gov/vaccines/, www.immunize.org, and www.immunizationinfo.org
Please consult your health care provider for recommendations regarding immunizations for your child.
