Nemaha County Community Health Services
Familias Saludables, Comunidades Saludables
785-284-2152
Adolescent Immunizations
As kids grow into teens, their immune systems—and their lifestyles—change. Between the ages of 11 and 18, certain vaccines are needed to boost protection built during childhood and to guard against new risks that come with adolescence, such as increased exposure to certain infections in school, sports, social activities, or future travel.
Recommended adolescent vaccines protect against serious diseases like meningitis, whooping cough, HPV-related cancers, tetanus, and more. Some are required for school entry or college, and others—like the HPV vaccine—offer protection later in life by preventing cancer-causing infections.
At NCCHS, we’re here to help your teen stay healthy, active, and protected. Our team can answer questions about vaccine safety, timing, and school requirements, and we’ll work with your family to keep your child on schedule.
Call 785-284-2152 to schedule an appointment or speak with a nurse about your teen’s immunization needs.
Vaccines aren’t just for little kids—protection during the teen years matters too.
Tetanus, Diphtheria, acellular pertussis (Tdap)
This vaccine is a booster for the childhood DTaP series. It protects against tetanus (a painful infection from cuts or wounds), diphtheria (a throat infection that can block breathing), and pertussis (whooping cough), which can cause severe coughing fits and spread easily to babies and others. It’s recommended at age 11 to keep protection strong.
Human Papillomavirus
The HPV vaccine protects against the types of HPV that cause most cervical cancers, as well as cancers of the throat, anus, and genitals in both males and females. It’s most effective when given at ages 11–12, but can be started as early as 9. Early protection means a lower risk of cancer later in life. Two doses are given if started before age 15; three doses if started later.
Meningococcal
This vaccine protects against meningococcal disease, a rare but serious illness that can cause meningitis (inflammation of the brain and spinal cord) and bloodstream infections. These conditions can be life-threatening and progress quickly. A first dose is recommended at age 11 or 12, with a booster at 16 to keep teens protected during the highest-risk years.
Meningococcal B
The MenB vaccine protects against a rare but serious strain of meningitis that can cause brain swelling and bloodstream infections. It’s recommended for ages 16–23, especially for those heading to college or living in group housing. The vaccine adds important protection during the years when the risk is highest.
COVID-19
COVID-19 can affect children of all ages and may lead to serious illness, long-term symptoms, or hospitalization. The COVID-19 vaccine helps protect your child by reducing the risk of severe illness and spread to others. Staying up to date with recommended doses keeps their protection strong as the virus evolves.