Recommended Vaccines for a 5-Year-Old Child
A 5-year-old child should receive the DTaP (5th dose), IPV (4th dose), MMR (2nd dose), and varicella (2nd dose) vaccines as part of their routine immunization schedule. 1
Core Vaccines Due at Age 5
DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and acellular Pertussis): The fifth and final dose of the DTaP series should be administered between ages 4-6 years. This dose is not necessary if the fourth dose was given after the fourth birthday. 1
IPV (Inactivated Poliovirus Vaccine): The fourth and final dose should be given between ages 4-6 years. If the third dose was administered at age 4 years or older, the fourth dose is not necessary. 1
MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella): The second dose of MMR is recommended at age 4-6 years. 1
Varicella (Chickenpox): The second dose of varicella vaccine is recommended at age 4-6 years. 1, 2
Administration Considerations
MMR and varicella vaccines can be administered simultaneously at different injection sites or, if not given on the same day, should be separated by at least 28 days. 2
Consider using combination vaccines when appropriate to reduce the number of injections (e.g., MMRV combines MMR and varicella in one injection). 3
All recommended vaccines can be administered during the same visit to ensure timely protection and reduce missed vaccination opportunities. 2
Annual Vaccines
- Influenza vaccine: Should be administered annually before or during flu season. Children under 9 years who are receiving influenza vaccine for the first time, or who previously received only one dose, should receive two doses separated by at least 4 weeks. 1, 4
Catch-up Vaccines (if previously missed)
Hepatitis A: If not previously administered, the two-dose series should be completed with doses separated by at least 6 months. 1
Hepatitis B: If the 3-dose series was not completed in infancy, the remaining doses should be administered. 1
Pneumococcal vaccines: Not routinely recommended for healthy children after age 5 years. 1
Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b): Not generally recommended for children aged 5 years and older. 1
Special Considerations
For children with certain medical conditions (immunocompromised, asplenia, etc.), additional or alternative vaccination schedules may be indicated. 1
If a child has missed previous vaccines, follow catch-up schedules to ensure complete protection. The goal is to provide protection as quickly as possible while maintaining adequate immune response. 3
Ensure proper documentation of all administered vaccines to prevent unnecessary revaccination and to maintain an accurate immunization record. 2
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Delaying vaccination increases the risk of disease exposure during the unprotected interval. 2
Administering live virus vaccines (MMR, varicella) less than 28 days apart (unless given on the same day) may result in suboptimal immune response. 2
Failing to check for contraindications specific to each vaccine before administration. 1