Vaccines for Young Adults

Last month, we wrote about the importance of vaccines for children. But did you know that it is also important for teenagers and college-aged kids to be vaccinated? In fact, some states and private universities require vaccinations before enrollment.

The Center for Disease Control recommends certain vaccines for young adults between 18-24. And, here is a link to the CDC website where you can check the requirements for colleges and universities in each state:

http://www2a.cdc.gov/nip/schoolsurv/schImmRqmt.asp

The vaccines recommended for young adults and college students are listed below along with why getting each vaccine is a good idea.

• Meningococcal conjugate vaccine – Helps prevent meningococcal disease, which is more likely to occur and spread in dormitories.

• Tdap vaccine – Protects against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis.

• HPV Vaccine – Protects against the viruses that cause cervical cancers, anal cancer and genital warts

• Seasonal flu vaccine – Protects against influenza, a virus that is very contagious and easily spread

Additional vaccines may be recommended by a healthcare professional if a young adult’s health, job or lifestyle put them at risk for certain diseases. Once you know which vaccines are needed for you or your young adult, visit The Little Clinic to get up-to-date.