What are the recommended immunizations for kids and adults?

Recommended Immunizations for Children and Adults

All infants, children, adolescents, and adults should receive age-appropriate vaccines as recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). 1

Children and Adolescents (Birth through 18 Years)

Routine Childhood Vaccines

Children should receive the following vaccines according to the standard immunization schedule: 1

• Hepatitis B vaccine: 3-dose series beginning at birth, with the birth dose critical for preventing perinatal transmission 1
• Diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis (DTaP): 5-dose series with doses at 2,4,6,15-18 months, and 4-6 years 1, 2
• Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib): Complete series in the first 2 years of life 1, 2
• Inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV): 4-dose series with the third dose before 19 months and fourth dose at 4-6 years 1, 2
• Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV): Complete series in the first 2 years of life 1, 2
• Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR): 2-dose series starting at 12-15 months, with second dose at 4-6 years 1, 2
• Varicella vaccine: 2-dose series starting at 12-15 months 1, 2
• Hepatitis A vaccine: 2-dose series beginning in the second year of life 1, 2
• Rotavirus vaccine: Series completed in infancy 1
• Influenza vaccine: Annually for all children aged 6 months through 18 years 1, 2

Adolescent Vaccines (11-12 Years)

At the 11-12 year visit, adolescents should receive: 1, 2

• Tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap): Single dose of the adolescent/adult formulation 1, 2
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine: 2-dose series 1, 2
• Meningococcal ACWY conjugate vaccine: 2-dose series with first dose at 11-12 years and booster at age 16 1, 2

Important Considerations for Children

Approximately 80% of recommended childhood immunizations are scheduled in the first 2 years of life, making early vaccination critical for disease prevention. 1 The goal is to achieve 90% immunization rates for children aged 19-35 months for all recommended vaccines. 1

Adults (18 Years and Older)

Universal Adult Vaccines

All adults should maintain immunity to the following diseases: 1

• Tetanus and diphtheria (Td): Booster every 10 years, with at least one dose as Tdap 1
• Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR): Adults born after 1956 should have documentation of 2 doses or laboratory evidence of immunity 1

Age-Based Adult Vaccines

Adults aged 50 years and older should receive: 1

• Influenza vaccine: Annually 1
• Zoster (shingles) vaccine: For prevention of herpes zoster 1

Adults aged 65 years and older should receive: 1

• Pneumococcal vaccine: For prevention of invasive pneumococcal disease 1

Risk-Based Adult Vaccines

Adults at special risk should receive additional vaccines: 1

• Hepatitis A vaccine: For those at risk of exposure 1
• Hepatitis B vaccine: For those at risk of exposure 1
• Meningococcal vaccine: For those at increased risk 1
• Varicella vaccine: For susceptible adults without evidence of immunity 1

Key Implementation Principles

When appropriate, all indicated vaccines should be administered simultaneously at the same visit. 1 This approach maximizes protection and reduces missed opportunities for vaccination. 1

Any vaccine dose not administered at the recommended age should be given at any subsequent medical encounter when indicated and feasible, without restarting the series. 1 Delayed schedules do not require repeating previously administered doses. 1

Licensed combination vaccines can be used when any component is indicated and other components are not contraindicated. 1 This simplifies administration and improves compliance. 1

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Do not miss opportunities to vaccinate during any healthcare encounter, including ambulatory visits and hospitalizations. 1 Missed opportunities represent a major barrier to achieving optimal immunization coverage. 1

Do not withhold vaccines for minor illnesses, low-grade fever, or antibiotic use—these are not valid contraindications. 1 Only true contraindications and precautions should prevent vaccination. 1

Ensure proper vaccine storage and administration according to manufacturer guidelines and FDA licensing requirements. 1 Improper handling can reduce vaccine effectiveness. 1