San Mateo County Health System is promoting Preteen Vaccine Week, February 10-16, as part of a statewide effort to remind families of preteens about recommended and school required immunizations for 11-and 12-year olds.
Health officials recommend that parents take this opportunity to schedule a checkup with their preteen’s doctor to make sure their immunizations are up-to-date.
This coming fall, all incoming 7th graders must provide proof of having immunization against whooping cough (Tdap) before starting school, according to health officials.
With the whooping cough (also known as pertussis) infections happening nationwide, health officials say there is no reason to wait for the new school year. Health professionals urge parents to have their children vaccinated now to protect them against whooping cough, and to meet the school requirement.
In addition to Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis/whooping cough), there are several other vaccines recommended for all preteens and teens, including the meningococcal vaccine, the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine series, and a second chickenpox shot (if they haven’t received the second dose of vaccine and never had chickenpox infection). The flu season also runs through April, and health officials recommend that everyone ages 6 months and older receive a seasonal flu vaccine every year.
