Children's Health

Childhood Immunizations and Vaccines

Immunizations and vaccines are the best defense against dangerous childhood diseases. To find out when your child should get specific immunizations, choose from the list.

Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis Immunization
Hepatitis A Immunization
Hepatitis B Immunization
H. influenzae type b (Hib) Immunization
Influenza Immunization
Measles/Mumps/Rubella (MMR) Immunization
Pneumococcal (PCV13) Immunization
Chickenpox (Varicella) Immunization
Rotavirus (RV) Immunization
Polio (IPV) Immunization
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Immunization
Meningococcal (MPSV4/MCV4) Immunization

Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis (DTaP) -- Five-Dose Series

2-4 months:

The first two doses are given at 2 and 4 months old.

4-6 months:

The third dose is given at 6 months.

12-18 months / 4-6 years:

The fourth dose is usually given between 15 and 18 months. However, it can be given as early as 12 months, as long as six months have passed since the third dose. The fifth dose should be given, at the latest, between 4 to 6 years.

Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis (Tdap) -- One Dose

11-12 years:

One booster dose is recommended at age 11 or 12 if the child has completed the DTaP series (see above) and has not yet received a tetanus and diphtheria toxiods booster vaccine (Td) for any reason (such as a traumatic injury).

13-18 years:

Teens who missed getting a tetanus and diphtheria toxiods booster vaccine (Td) or Tdap booster at age 11-12 should also receive a single dose of Tdap if they have completed the recommended childhood DTaP vaccination series.

Td boosters are recommended every 10 years throughout adulthood.