Children 0-18 years:
Children are given vaccines at a young age because this is when they are at highest risk of getting sick or dying from certain diseases. There are 14 different vaccines that your child should receive before age two, but keep in mind some are combination shots which cuts down on the number of injections your child will receive.
Having your children follow the vaccine schedule is very important and less traumatic for the child, because the infant/child is too young to remember having the shots from birth to 18 months of age. If a child receives their vaccines on time, then he/she will receive vaccines again between four and six years of age upon entering school. Then children won’t need any further vaccines until their pre-adolescent years (11-12).
It’s important to remember that immunization schedules can change, so be sure to
talk with your healthcare provider regarding your child’s immunizations.
Immunization Schedules for Infants and Children
Immunization Schedules for Preteens and Teens
Georgia Immunization Requirements for Schools and Day Care
Adults 19 and older:
Immunizations are not just for children. Adults are also at risk for vaccine-preventable disease due to their age, job, lifestyle, travel, or health conditions. It is very important for all adults to keep up with their immunization record and consider taking any recommended vaccines.
ACIP Guidelines
Adult Immunization Schedule
Back to School:
Most schools require children to be current on vaccinations before enrolling to protect the health of all students. Remember that school vaccines are booster doses since your child should already have all these vaccines as an infant/toddler, unless your child is behind on their immunizations. If you have questions about your child’s schedule, please ask a nurse at your local health department to see if you need to catch up on any doses missed.
Travel:
Before you travel internationally, ensure that you are up to date on all your routine vaccines, as well as the recommended vaccines for the countries you are visiting. International travel, especially to developing countries and rural areas, have higher health risks. These risks depend on the country you’re visiting, your activities there, your current health status and your vaccine history. Call your local health department to for an appointment for travel vaccinations. Some vaccines may need to be ordered, and vaccines should be given well in advance of your trip. For the latest updates on travel advisories and vaccines, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Flu:
The flu is an illness that infects the nose, throat, and lungs caused by influenza viruses. Flu spreads when infected people cough or sneeze. Flu can cause mild to severe illness, and in some cases it can be fatal. The CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone 6 months of age and older. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for your body to build immunity. Flu vaccines are available at your local health department.