At what ages are vaccines administered?
Vaccines are administered at various ages throughout a person’s life to protect against infectious diseases. The timing and number of vaccines can vary depending on factors such as the country’s immunization schedule, individual health conditions, and specific recommendations from healthcare professionals. In this article, we will explore the ages at which vaccines are commonly administered and the importance of vaccination at each stage of life.
Infancy:
Vaccination begins in infancy, typically within the first 24 hours after birth. The first vaccine given is often the hepatitis B vaccine, which protects against the hepatitis B virus. This is followed by a series of vaccines given at regular intervals during the first year of life. These vaccines include vaccines against diseases such as diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), pneumococcal disease, and rotavirus.
Early Childhood:
During early childhood, additional vaccines are administered to provide continued protection against various diseases. Around the age of 12 to 15 months, the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is given, which protects against these highly contagious viral infections. The varicella (chickenpox) vaccine is also typically administered around this age. Other vaccines given during early childhood include those for hepatitis A, meningococcal disease, and additional doses of vaccines given in infancy to ensure long-term immunity.
School-Age Children:
As children enter school, they may receive additional vaccines to protect against diseases that are more common in this age group. The vaccines given during this period often include boosters for diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, and MMR. The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, which protects against certain types of cancer-causing HPV infections, is also recommended for both boys and girls around the age of 11 or 12.
Adolescence:
During adolescence, vaccines are administered to protect against diseases that are more prevalent in this age group. The meningococcal conjugate vaccine, which protects against meningococcal disease, is typically given around the age of 11 or 12, with a booster dose recommended at age 16. Additionally, the tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) vaccine is given as a booster around the age of 11 or 12.
Adulthood:
Vaccination is not limited to childhood and adolescence; adults also need to stay up to date with their immunizations. The influenza vaccine, commonly known as the flu shot, is recommended annually for all adults. The tetanus and diphtheria (Td) vaccine is also recommended every 10 years to maintain immunity. Additionally, certain vaccines may be recommended for adults based on their occupation, travel plans, or underlying health conditions. These vaccines may include those for hepatitis A and B, pneumococcal disease, shingles, and human papillomavirus.
Older Adults:
As individuals age, their immune system may weaken, making them more susceptible to certain diseases. Vaccination remains important in older adults to protect against these diseases. The influenza vaccine is recommended annually, and the pneumococcal vaccine is given to protect against pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae. The shingles vaccine is also recommended for individuals aged 50 and older to prevent shingles, a painful rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus.
In conclusion, vaccines are administered at various ages throughout a person’s life to protect against infectious diseases. From infancy to older adulthood, vaccines play a crucial role in preventing the spread of diseases and maintaining individual and public health. It is important to follow the recommended immunization schedules and consult with healthcare professionals to ensure that everyone receives the appropriate vaccines at the right time.
