Subtitle Forum
The most important vaccines are those that protect against serious illnesses. Vaccines are available for a variety of diseases, including measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), hepatitis B, rotavirus, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), human papillomavirus (HPV), and influenza (flu). Vaccines are recommended for all children, teens, and adults in order to reduce the risk of serious illnesses.
Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
The MMR vaccine protects against three viral illnesses: measles, mumps, and rubella. The vaccine is typically given to children in two doses, with the first dose administered between 12 and 15 months of age and the second dose administered between 4 and 6 years of age. The MMR vaccine is highly effective in preventing these illnesses and is recommended for all children.
Hepatitis B
The hepatitis B vaccine protects against a viral infection that can cause liver damage and other serious complications. The vaccine is typically given to infants in three doses, with the first dose administered at birth, the second dose administered between 1 and 2 months of age, and the third dose administered between 6 and 18 months of age. Booster doses may also be recommended for certain individuals.
Rotavirus
The rotavirus vaccine protects against a virus that can cause severe diarrhea and vomiting in infants and young children. The vaccine is typically given to infants in two or three doses, depending on the brand used. The first dose is typically administered between 6 and 12 weeks of age, and the second dose is typically administered between 4 and 10 months of age.
Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
The DTaP vaccine protects against three bacterial illnesses: diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (whooping cough). The vaccine is typically given to infants in five doses, with the first dose administered at 2 months of age, the second dose administered at 4 months of age, the third dose administered at 6 months of age, the fourth dose administered at 15 to 18 months of age, and the fifth dose administered at 4 to 6 years of age.
Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
The Hib vaccine protects against a bacterial infection that can cause meningitis, pneumonia, and other serious complications. The vaccine is typically given to infants in three or four doses, with the first dose administered at 2 months of age, the second dose administered at 4 months of age, the third dose administered at 6 months of age, and the fourth dose administered at 12 to 15 months of age.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
The HPV vaccine protects against a virus that can cause several types of cancer. The vaccine is typically given to adolescents and young adults in three doses, with the first dose administered at 11 or 12 years of age, the second dose administered 1 to 2 months after the first dose, and the third dose administered 6 months after the first dose.
Influenza (Flu)
The flu vaccine protects against the influenza virus. The vaccine is typically given to children and adults on an annual basis. The vaccine is recommended for all individuals 6 months of age and older. It is especially important for those at high risk of serious complications, including young children, pregnant women, and individuals with certain medical conditions.