Keep Your Preteens Healthy and in School! Immunize!

Posted February 12, 2012,

NOTE: This original post has been updated 7/24/2017.

With such busy schedules nowadays, many parents are unaware of the changes to the vaccine schedule. One of the best ways to keep your preteen healthy is with a visit to the pediatrician. Preteens should have their immunization record checked to see if they are missing important shots that will protect them from dangerous diseases like meningitis and pertussis (whooping cough).

You may have heard that the Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) vaccine is now required for all incoming 7^th graders before they start the school year. What you may not be aware of is that immunity from some vaccines can decrease over time, so preteens need booster doses to stay protected. This is also the age where close contact with one another occurs, more often during sports and other activities; and sharing water, sports drinks, and utensils puts them at greater risk of catching diseases like meningitis.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all 11- and 12-year-olds receive the Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, whooping cough), Meningococcal, HPV (2 dose series if given at this age) and an annual flu vaccine.

I have unfortunately seen these diseases and their devastating consequences up close, making me even more passionate about protecting my patients. Please make it a goal to schedule a visit with your pediatrician, get a well child exam, get your kids up to date on their vaccines, and help spread the word!!

For more information or questions about these vaccines contact your pediatrician and visit these helpful websites:

immunization, immunize, preteen vaccine week, vaccines

Gina Rosenfeld, M.D., F.A.A.P.

Dr. Rosenfeld has been practicing as a pediatrician in private practice for over 17 years. She is Board Certified and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. In 1994, Dr. Rosenfeld joined Children’s Medical Group and has remained there as a long-term primary caregiver to her young patients in North San Diego County. Dr. Rosenfeld practices direct patient care in the office and hospital setting, as well as a number of other clinical functions. In addition to her clinical roles, Dr. Rosenfeld has worked extensively with pediatric policy. Through her appointment as Chairman of Pediatrics at Palomar Medical Center (1998 to 2000), to her contributions on the CPMG Quality of Care Committee and her appointment to the CPMG Executive Advisory Board, Dr. Rosenfeld has served as a voice for pediatric patients in San Diego. Dr. Rosenfeld completed her Pediatric Residency at The University of California, San Diego. She received her Doctor of Medicine from New York Medical College and her B.A. in Biochemistry and Cell Biology from The University of California, San Diego Beyond her career achievements, Dr. Rosenfeld was honored to be named as a New York Medical College Merit Trustee Scholar, the recipient of the Glasgow Memorial Achievement Citation and Outstanding Intern in Neonatology at UCSD Medical Center. Dr. Rosenfeld maintains a longstanding affiliation with the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society. Additionally, Dr. Rosenfeld is an honored recipient of the Patients Choice Award 2008, 2009, 2010 and The Compassionate Doctor Award 2010. Dr. Rosenfeld loves being a mom and remains quite busy outside the office with her husband and two boys.

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