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Immunizations for Children

Each state has its own immunization requirements. Most ask for written proof of a student's immunizations from a doctor or clinic before you can sign your child up for school. Next to clean drinking water, immunizations have been called one of the most important public health interventions in history. They have saved millions of lives.

Getting all of the recommended vaccinations can protect your children from diseases including:

  • Diphtheria
  • Hepatitis A
  • Hepatitis B
  • Hib (haemophilus
    influenza type b)
  • Influenza (flu)
  • Measles
  • Meningococcal infection
  • Mumps
  • Pertussis (whooping cough)
  • Pneumococcus
  • Polio
  • Rotovirus
  • Rubella (German measles)
  • Tetanus (lockjaw)
  • Varicella (chickenpox)

When your child sees his or her doctor, be sure to ask the doctor to check for any shots that may have been missed. If your child has not received all the recommended shots or has started late, the CDC suggests using the Catch-Up Immunization Scheduler  to help create a catch up schedule for missed shots.

Download our Children's Wellness Guidelines flier  or an immunization schedule  to keep on top of vaccinations. Note that the recommendations are based on a child's age and are updated from time to time.

This article is not meant to replace a doctor's advice. Be sure to talk to your doctor about immunizations your child may need.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)