Just because your children are out of diapers doesn’t mean that they’ve gotten all their immunizations (shots). Preteens and teens still need some vaccines to stay healthy and avoid serious diseases. But what if your child has missed a shot? Don’t worry—it’s not too late.

Catch-Up Shots Are Available
Catch-up shots can help your child get back on track. Talk with your child’s doctor and see whether your child has had all the shots that he or she needs. If your child does need any catch-up shots, schedule an appointment.

What Are Some Examples?
Here are some catch-up vaccines for children ages 7 to 18:

• Tetanus-diphtheria (Td) or tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis (Tdap)
• Hepatitis A (Hep A)
• Hepatitis B (Hep B)
• Inactivated poliovirus (IPV)
• Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR)
• Varicella (chickenpox)
• Human papillomavirus (HPV)—this vaccine is just for girls.

Go Online for a Full Catch-Up Shot Schedule
You can find a full schedule of catch-up shots online. Go to www.cdc.gov/vaccines and click on “Immunization Schedules.” Scroll down to Adolescent Schedule (7 to 18 years old) and click on “Catchup Schedule.” Print out a version and have it on hand when you talk with your child’s doctor.