Many teens (and some parents, too) think that immunizations (shots) are just for younger kids, but this isn’t true. Kids ages 11 to 19 need vaccines, and here are some reasons why.

• Deadly diseases such as chickenpox, hepatitis B, measles, mumps, and rubella still exist. When teens miss these shots, they risk getting sick and spreading the disease to others.
• Some shots come in parts, called a series. Teens need the whole series of shots to protect against the disease.
• Some shots need a booster. For example, teens and adults need a tetanus shot every 10 years.
• Teens with asthma, diabetes, and some other health problems need a flu shot every year. Last year’s shot will not protect a teen this year.

When Do They Need to Be Immunized?
For a description of the vaccines teens need and when they should get them, visit www.paramounthealthcare.com. Click on “Better Health for Life,” search for “teen immunizations,” then click on “Children and Teen Health.”