Back-to-school vaccine schedule: Protecting your child and community

Is your child up to date on vaccinations? As kids return to the classroom for the start of a new school year, it’s a great time to plan back-to-school vaccinations. Vaccines help prevent the spread of contagious diseases and are often required for school entry. By staying on top of your child’s immunizations, you can protect your child’s health, plus the health of their classmates and teachers.

When were vaccines invented?

The history of vaccines traces back to 1796 when Dr. Edward Jenner created the first successful vaccination. Dr. Jenner used an injection with cowpox matter to prevent smallpox in a patient. Thomas Jefferson and Napoleon Bonaparte endorsed the smallpox vaccine and today we have vaccinations for several illnesses that were once unpreventable.

Why are vaccines important?

Vaccines are a cornerstone of public health. They protect your child from serious illnesses that could lead to complications or long-term health issues. Additionally, school-aged children are often in close contact with large groups of peers, and can be more at risk of catching and spreading illnesses. Vaccines provide a shield that keeps individual students and the community safe.

Essential vaccines before heading back to school

Vaccination schedules vary by country, but here’s a breakdown of the typical vaccines children need before heading back to school in the U.S. according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Check with your local school district and pediatrician to review your child’s vaccination record to see what is needed.

For infants and toddlers (0-3 years)

Before your child reaches school age, it’s crucial to stay on track with early childhood vaccines. These vaccines lay the foundation for lifelong immunity:

• Hepatitis B (HepB): Usually given at birth, 1-2 months, and 6-18 months.
• Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (DTaP): Five doses in total. The last dose is typically given at age 4-6 years.
• Polio (IPV): Four doses by age 6.
• Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib): Three to four doses between 1-23 months.
• Rotavirus: Two to three doses, given between 2-6 months.
• Flu: An annual flu shot is recommended for children 6 months and older.
• Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR): Two doses, usually at 12–15 months and 4-6 years.
• Chickenpox: Two doses, typically at 12-15 months and 4-6 years.
• Hepatitis A: Two doses, given between 12-23 months.

For elementary school kids (4-10 years)

As children prepare for elementary school, they’ll need to ensure they’re up to date on routine vaccinations:

• DTaP: The final dose is given at age 4-6 years.
• IPV: The last dose is given at 4-6 years.
• MMR: Ensure both doses are received.
• Chickenpox: Two doses, with the second given at 4-6 years.
• Flu: Recommended annually.

For middle school students (11-12 years)

Before entering middle school, your child may need additional vaccinations:

• Tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (Tdap): A single dose at 11-12 years.
• Human papillomavirus (HPV): A two-dose series, starting at age 11–12, to protect against cancers linked to the virus.
• Meningococcal: A single dose at age 11–12, with a booster at age 16.
• Flu: Recommended annually.

For high schoolers (13-18 years)

As teens transition into high school and beyond, it’s important to ensure they’re protected against transmittable diseases:

• Meningococcal: Booster dose at age 16 if the initial dose was given before age 16.
• Human papillomavirus (HPV): For those who didn’t complete the vaccination series as preteens.
• Flu: Keep up with the yearly flu vaccine.

Getting your child vaccinated is one of the simplest and most effective ways to ensure they have a healthy school year. By staying on top of the recommended vaccines, you’re not only protecting your child from illness but also helping to prevent the spread of contagious diseases in your community. If you’re unsure about which vaccines your child needs, your doctor can offer guidance based on your child’s age, medical history, and school requirements.