- At the 11-year-old well visit, providers commonly recommend the TDAP, meningitis, and HPV vaccines to protect against serious illnesses.
- The TDAP vaccine protects against tetanus and whooping cough, while the meningitis vaccine helps prevent potentially life-threatening bacterial meningitis.
- The HPV vaccine protects against several cancers and is most effective when started before age 15.
- Common vaccine side effects are generally mild and may include arm soreness, redness, headache, or low-grade fever.
- These vaccines are not live vaccines, cannot cause the diseases they prevent, and are considered safe and effective for adolescents.
Understanding Recommended Vaccines for 11-Year-Olds
Recommended vaccines at age 11 help protect children from serious infections and cancers with a strong safety record and generally mild side effects.
Rebecca Lozman-Oxman, DNP, MPH, APRN, Pediatrics