Are your older kids on track with vaccinations? Ask their healthcare provider.

 Adolescent vaccinations are important to help keep kids healthy. Over time, protection from childhood vaccines can wear off leaving adolescents at risk for diseases.

If you have questions, like what vaccines older kids need  or what vaccines are needed for school, talk to your child’s healthcare provider. They’ll always put your child’s health first.

Common Adolescent Vaccination Questions

  • What vaccines do teens need?
  • What vaccines does my child need for school?
  • What’s the recommended adolescent vaccination schedule?

Vaccinations help keep kids healthy.

Vaccines can help prevent many diseases in pre-teens and teens. The following vaccines are recommended for kids beginning at age 11.

If your kids are vaccinated and do get sick from these diseases, they’re less likely to get seriously ill.

What can your kids expect after getting vaccinated?

Common side effects from vaccines are minor and expected as the body builds immunity. Common side effects include:

  • Redness
  • Soreness
  • Tiredness
  • Headache

Recommended Adolescent Vaccination Schedule

Learn about the recommended vaccination schedule for adolescents.

Who pays for vaccinations?

Private insurance, the VFC Program and Medicaid are a few entities that pay for vaccinations.

Keep track of your kids’ vaccinations.

It may be required to provide proof of your child’s vaccinations throughout their life. Talk with your healthcare provider about entering immunizations into Iowa’s Immunization Registry Information System (IRIS) and to obtain copies of your records.

Learn more about IRIS.

Is your child up to date with vaccinations? Talk to your child’s healthcare provider.

Their healthcare provider can also answer any questions you may have, like what vaccines are needed for school or what vaccinations your child needs as they get older. Ask your healthcare provider at your kid’s next appointment.

Additional Resources