Immunization Schedules
Ask Our Expert about Immunization Guidelines
About Our Expert
Amy Vyas, M.D., is a pediatrician with Lehigh Valley Health Network’s outpatient pediatric clinic.
- I read that the immunization schedule just changed. What should I do?
- What has changed since last year?
- Do I have to get the new vaccines?
- Will the immunization schedule change again next year?
Q: I read that the immunization schedule just changed. What should I do?
A: It’s likely your pediatrician already knows about the changes to the immunization schedule. Every year the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) change the guidelines because of new research into the effectiveness of a particular vaccine or because of new vaccines. You should see your pediatrician and ask about the new changes. These changes may or may not affect your child, depending on her age.
Q: What has changed since last year?
A: There are two new additions and two different recommendations. These include:
- Rotavirus vaccine: The CDC now recommends for your child to receive the new rotavirus vaccine series starting between 6 and 12 weeks of age. Rotavirus is one of the main causes of severe diarrhea in infants. To avoid getting rotavirus, you should wash your hands much more often during the winter months, and wipe down your child’s changing station surfaces frequently.
- Human papillomavirus (HPV): Gardasil is the newest vaccine to fight the human papillomavirus (HPV). The vaccine, which can help prevent cervical cancer in women, is recommended for girls and young women between the ages of 9 and 26. This vaccine is given in three doses over a six-month time frame. Please remember that even if you or your child is vaccinated, you should continue getting regular pap tests.
- Chicken pox (varicella): Children should now get two doses of the chicken pox vaccine. The first dose should be given when your infant is 12-15 months old, and the second should come at age 4-6 years. Adults should also consider getting the second dose of the vaccine if they have not already. If you have had the chicken pox disease previously, you should ask your doctor whether it is necessary to get a booster vaccine.
- Influenza: All children ages 6-59 months should receive two doses of the influenza vaccine if they haven’t been previously immunized. Otherwise, one dose a year is fine.
Q: Do I have to get the new vaccines?
A: Getting the vaccines is not mandatory in Pennsylvania; however, they are strongly recommended. These are important guidelines for you and your doctor to follow so your child can stay healthy and strong.
Q: Will the immunization schedule change again next year?
A: There are always new research projects and new vaccines in development. Call 610-402-CARE to get your copy of the 2007 immunization schedule and visit www.CDC.gov for updates.
This page last updated 1/6/09 02:26 PM
