Vaccination protection

In infancy and toddlerhood, vaccination is a constant topic of discussion as part of the U examinations. In adolescence, on the other hand, further vaccinations are quickly lost sight of. Between the ages of 12 and 17, however, a review of vaccination protection is urgently recommended. Refreshers and missing vaccinations can be made up now.

Young people are rarely sick in their teens and therefore rarely see a doctor. This makes it all the more important to have their vaccination status checked. Either as part of the J1 examination or at a separate vaccination check. Before school trips, a student exchange or vacation trips to distant countries, it is particularly important to build up a recommended vaccination protection early on.

Good to know: The costs of the vaccinations recommended by the STIKO in adolescence are covered by statutory health insurance.

At the age of 9 to 17, booster vaccinations against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis and polio are due. The booster must then be repeated every 10 years. Conveniently, a single dose of vaccine protects against all four infectious diseases, using a combination vaccine.

If you missed vaccination dates in childhood, these vaccinations can now be made up. This applies, for example, hepatitis B or the 2nd measles vaccination.

Among the recommended vaccinations that can only take place in adolescence is the sensible vaccination against HPV (human papillomavirus) for girls and boys between 9 and 14 years.

Human papillomaviruses (HPV) are pathogens that are transmitted through sexual contact. Most infections run without signs of illness and often go unnoticed. If the infection does not heal, the viruses can lead to cancer over time, especially on the cervix, but also on the anus or penis and in the mouth and throat. HPV vaccination effectively protects against the most dangerous types of HPV and thus reduces the risk of these cancers.

The Standing Commission on Vaccination (STIKO) recommends vaccination against HPV for girls and boys. Since the pathogens are mostly transmitted during sexual intercourse, vaccination is recommended before the first sexual activity. Between the ages of 9 and 14, 2 vaccinations are necessary. If your child has not yet been vaccinated, the HPV vaccination should be made up by his or her 18th birthday. From the age of 15 years, 3 vaccinations are necessary.