How Many Vaccines Do Kids Get by Age 18?
Vaccination is a crucial component of preventive healthcare, ensuring that children are protected against a range of infectious diseases. The question of how many vaccines kids get by age 18 is a significant one, as it helps parents and healthcare providers understand the importance of immunization schedules. In this article, we will explore the various vaccines recommended for children up to the age of 18 and the reasons behind these immunizations.
Immunization Schedule for Children
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides a comprehensive immunization schedule for children from birth to 18 years of age. This schedule outlines the recommended vaccines and the age at which they should be administered. The goal of this schedule is to protect children from infectious diseases at the most critical times in their lives.
Recommended Vaccines
By the age of 18, children are typically recommended to receive a total of 20 doses of vaccines. These vaccines are divided into several categories, including:
1. Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP): This vaccine protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (whooping cough). It is administered in a series of five doses, starting at 2 months of age and continuing until the child is 6 years old.
2. Hepatitis B: This vaccine protects against hepatitis B, a viral infection that can lead to liver disease. It is given in a series of three doses, starting at birth and continuing at 1 month and 6 months of age.
3. Haemophilus Influenzae Type b (Hib): This vaccine protects against Hib, a bacterium that can cause severe infections, such as meningitis and pneumonia. It is administered in a series of four doses, starting at 2 months of age and continuing at 4 months, 6 months, and 12 to 15 months of age.
4. Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV13): This vaccine protects against pneumococcal disease, which can cause infections such as pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections. It is given in a series of four doses, starting at 2 months of age and continuing at 4 months, 6 months, and 12 to 15 months of age.
5. Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV): This vaccine protects against polio, a highly infectious disease that can cause paralysis. It is administered in a series of four doses, starting at 2 months of age and continuing at 4 months, 6 months, and 4 to 6 years of age.
6. Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR): This vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. It is given in a series of two doses, with the first dose administered at 12 to 15 months of age and the second dose at 4 to 6 years of age.
7. Varicella (Chickenpox): This vaccine protects against chickenpox, a highly contagious disease that can cause severe illness. It is given in a series of two doses, with the first dose administered at 12 to 15 months of age and the second dose at 4 to 6 years of age.
8. Human Papillomavirus (HPV): This vaccine protects against HPV, a virus that can cause cervical cancer and other cancers. It is recommended for girls and boys at 11 or 12 years of age, with a second dose given 6 to 12 months later.
9. Meningococcal Conjugate Vaccine (MCV4): This vaccine protects against meningococcal disease, which can cause meningitis and bloodstream infections. It is recommended for adolescents at 11 to 12 years of age and for college students living in dormitories.
10. Meningococcal B Vaccine: This vaccine protects against meningococcal disease caused by serogroup B. It is recommended for adolescents and young adults at high risk for meningococcal B disease.
Conclusion
Understanding how many vaccines kids get by age 18 is essential for ensuring that children are adequately protected against infectious diseases. By following the recommended immunization schedule, parents and healthcare providers can help children lead healthier lives and reduce the spread of preventable diseases within the community. It is crucial to stay informed about vaccine recommendations and to consult with healthcare professionals to ensure that children receive the necessary immunizations at the appropriate times.
