Before sending the kiddos back to school, UTMB pediatrician Dr. Lee Elam recommends checking in with your child's health care provider to ensure they are up-to-date on all of their vaccinations.
Below is a breakdown of routine immunizations administered throughout various stages of childhood and development. Additionally, Dr. Elam reminds parents that regular vaccines for COVID-19 and the flu are also available, with most clinics normally offering flu shots at the beginning of September. For the COVID-19 vaccines, she advises parents and guardians talk to their family's health care provider for the most up-to-date information about what's available to them.
Typical pre-K and Kinder vaccinations
- DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough "pertussis")
- MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
- Varicella (chickenpox)
Typical 6th or 7th grade vaccinations
- Tdap (booster of the DTaP originally administered before the age of 7)
- HPV
- Meningitis
Typical vaccinations for 16-year-olds
- Meningitis booster (to support original dosage from middle school)
- Group B Meningitis
A more detailed breakdown of vaccinations throughout childhood is available in a previous blog post.
For more information on children's health and wellness measures--including care options -- visit the UTMB Health Pediatrics page.
Dr. Lee Elam on vaccinations