How Many Vaccines Do Children Get Before 18?
Vaccination is a crucial aspect of preventive healthcare, especially for children. It plays a vital role in protecting them from various infectious diseases. The question often arises among parents and caregivers: how many vaccines do children get before they turn 18? This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the vaccination schedule for children in the United States, highlighting the number of vaccines and the age at which they are administered.
Understanding the Vaccination Schedule
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides a detailed vaccination schedule for children from birth to 18 years of age. This schedule is designed to ensure that children receive the necessary vaccines at the appropriate times to maximize their protection against infectious diseases.
Number of Vaccines Before 18
Before the age of 18, children typically receive a total of 26 doses of vaccines, including 14 doses of combination vaccines. These vaccines are administered in various stages, starting from infancy and continuing through adolescence. The number of vaccines may vary depending on the specific recommendations and any changes in the vaccination schedule.
Infancy (0-6 months)
During the first six months of life, infants receive several vaccines to protect them from diseases such as hepatitis B, rotavirus, and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib). By the age of 6 months, they have received a total of 4 doses of vaccines.
Early Childhood (7-23 months)
Between the ages of 7 and 23 months, children receive a series of vaccines to protect them from diseases such as diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, measles, mumps, rubella, hepatitis A, and varicella (chickenpox). During this period, they receive a total of 16 doses of vaccines, including 7 doses of combination vaccines.
Preschool (24-35 months)
Children between the ages of 24 and 35 months receive additional vaccines to protect them from diseases such as pneumococcal disease, influenza, and meningitis. They receive a total of 3 doses of vaccines during this period.
Adolescence (11-18 years)
Adolescents between the ages of 11 and 18 years receive vaccines to protect them from diseases such as meningococcal disease, human papillomavirus (HPV), and tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap). They receive a total of 5 doses of vaccines during this period.
Conclusion
In conclusion, children receive a total of 26 doses of vaccines before they turn 18, including 14 doses of combination vaccines. The vaccination schedule is designed to provide comprehensive protection against a wide range of infectious diseases, ensuring the health and well-being of children. It is essential for parents and caregivers to follow the recommended vaccination schedule to keep their children safe and healthy.
