From Infants to Adolescents Understanding Your Child's Vaccine Schedule

LANCASTER, Calif., – Keeping children up to date on immunizations is one of the most important steps parents can take to protect their health. Kaiser Permanente Antelope Valley Pediatrician, Dr. Paul Round, explains what parents need to know about vaccines at every stage of development.

Addressing Common Concerns

“I understand parents have questions and concerns about vaccines,” says Dr. Round. “The best thing you can do is have an open conversation with your child’s doctor. We’re here to provide evidence-based information and address any worries you might have.”

He emphasized that vaccines undergo rigorous safety testing. “The vaccines we give today are safer and more effective than ever,” Dr. Round noted. “The diseases they prevent can cause serious complications, disability and even death.”

Starting Strong in Infancy

"We begin protecting children from serious diseases very early," says Dr. Round. "The infant vaccine schedule is designed to provide protection when babies are most vulnerable.”

The first vaccines are given as newborns in the hospital, and even as important, immunizations to protect infants begin during pregnancy when mothers are given an updated TDaP vaccine as well as RSV and flu vaccines when seasonally appropriate.

“Parents sometimes worry about giving multiple vaccines at once, but research shows it’s safe and effective,” Dr. Round explains. “Delaying or spacing out vaccines actually leaves children vulnerable to dangerous diseases for longer periods.”

School-Age Requirements

As children enter school, additional vaccines become important. “The school years bring increased exposure to other children, which means increased exposure to communicable diseases,” says Dr. Round.

Adolescent Updates

The teenage years bring their own vaccination needs. “Around age 9, we recommend the start of HPV vaccination,” Dr. Round notes. “The HPV vaccine is particularly important because it prevents several types of cancer later in life. When children turn 11-years-old, they need an updated dose of the TDaP vaccine as well as the start of their vaccination against meningitis.”

Dr. Round emphasizes that adolescent vaccines aren’t just for school requirements. “The meningitis vaccine protects against a rare but serious infection that can be fatal,” he said. “The Tdap booster ensures continued protection against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis.”

Take Action:

• Review your child's immunization record before school starts.

• Schedule catch-up vaccines if needed.

• Ask your pediatrician about age-appropriate vaccines.

• Keep a copy of vaccination records for school enrollment.

• Discuss any concerns with your child's doctor.

To learn more about pediatric immunizations or to schedule an appointment with a Kaiser Permanente pediatrician, members may visit kp.orgor call 1-833-574-2273.