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See what vaccines teenagers need to stay healthy and strong!
Teen
Vaccines help to improve the health of our communities. They prevent people from getting sick and stop the spread of disease. People who are not immunized are left at risk of illness and spreading disease to others who cannot be vaccinated themselves. Vaccines are very safe and effective.
What can I do?
Talk to your parents or caregiver about the vaccinations you need. Vaccines are available at private doctor offices, public or community health clinics, or other community locations like schools.
HPV infections can lead to genital warts and several forms of cancer, including cervical, anal, penile, mouth, and throat. This vaccine is administered through 2 shots over a six-month period if you get vaccinated by the age of 15. If you start the series at 15 or older, you will need 3 doses. This shot is important, especially if you are sexually active.
Doctors recommend that people your age receive the flu vaccine every year since new strains of the virus constantly develop. It is best to get vaccinated before the winter flu season of every year.
Meningococcal vaccines help protect against bacteria that can cause serious illnesses, like infections of the fluid and lining around the brain and spinal cord, even leading to death in some cases. There are two vaccines that are recommended for teens. You should have received a dose of MenACWY when you were 11 or 12, and you are due for a second shot at the age of 16. The Meningitis B vaccine is recommended for teens ages 16 - 18.