As kids grow and reach teenage, their body undergoes several physical, mental and emotional changes. Amidst this, it can become very hectic and often frustrating for them to learn about vaccinations or keep track of their vaccination schedule. Studies indicate that teenagers often possess a limited grasp of various vaccines, perceiving vaccine information as more relevant to their parents rather than themselves. This gap in understanding can potentially compromise their health, as they may not fully comprehend the diseases that can affect them or how vaccines can safeguard against such illnesses.
In this article, we will explore the various health risks that can pose a danger to the health of teenagers, and also learn how vaccines can often mitigate these risks.
Understanding Teenage-specific Health Risks
Teenagers who are in the transitional phase from childhood to adulthood can face numerous health risks. An awareness of the diseases and knowledge about the vaccines providing immunity against these diseases can pave the way for a healthier future for these youngsters.
The following are some of the major diseases that have the potential to harm a healthy teenager.
Influenza (Flu)
The flu is not the same as a severe cold, even though many people dismiss it as such. Flu symptoms come on quickly and all at once, as opposed to gradually getting worse over a few days. Teenagers who are otherwise in good health typically get over the flu quickly, but in some cases, it can be fatal. Flu can significantly impact school attendance, hence All teens should get their annual flu shot in order to stay protected against the flu.
Diphtheria
Diphtheria is a bacterial infection which affects the upper respiratory tract (nose, throat) and skin. Respiratory diphtheria is a serious condition which can be fatal. It presents with fever, sore throat, swollen glands in neck, difficulty in breathing and weakness. Some patients develop complications resulting in facial paralysis due to nerve damage, heart failure and kidney failure. Diphtheria prevention needs regular doses of vaccines given in infants, toddlers, preschool and teens. Diphtheria vaccine is available in combination with Tetanus vaccine as Td and Tdap. Indian guidelines recommend a dose of Tdap at 9-14 years of age followed by one dose of Td at 15-18 years of age.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
HPV is a viral infection which can cause certain types of cancers like Cervical, vaginal and vulvar cancers in women, penile cancer in men, anal cancers in both men and women, cancers of tonsils, base of tongue and back of throat in both men and women. HPV can also cause anogenital warts.
HPV vaccines can prevent over 90% of cancers caused by HPV. Previously HPV vaccine was available for girls only, recently HPV vaccines are recommended for both girls and boys starting from 9 years of age.
How Does A Timely Vaccine Schedule Offer Protection?
Adhering to the vaccination schedule offers protection against a host of ailments in the following ways:
- Vaccination ensures the immune system is prepared to combat specific diseases.
- Provides immunity before potential exposure to infectious agents.
- Reduces the risk of contracting and spreading vaccine-preventable diseases.
- Enhances herd immunity.
- Protects vulnerable populations who may not be able to receive vaccines.
- Helps prevent outbreaks and epidemics of infectious diseases.
In India, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is endowed with the task of preparing the vaccine schedule. Keeping track of one’s vaccine journey can empower individuals to combat diseases and lead a healthy life.
The following are the recommended vaccine schedules in India for teenagers:
- Teenagers should receive a flu vaccine every year before the start of flu season, typically during the pre-monsoon period.
- Diphtheria booster doses given in teenagers extend the protection against deadly diseases and create herd immunity
- It is advised to have an HPV vaccination between the ages of 9-14 years to prevent cancers brought on by HPV infection. The HPV vaccine requires two doses spaced six to twelve months apart. A third dose is required if the injections are given after 15 years of age.
- It is advised to check the childhood immunization card of teens to verify the completion of other important vaccines like Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Varicella (chicken pox), Typhoid, MMR, Japanese encephalitis (brain fever), Meningococcal vaccine. If they are not received or uncompleted, it is important to receive complete vaccination in order to stay protected.
Conclusion
In today’s interconnected world, we often interact with people who may unknowingly carry diseases themselves. While it may be challenging to completely prevent diseases, administering vaccines can certainly provide protection against them. This helps ensure a healthier future for teenagers, who are undeniably the bright future of our country.
FAQs
Immunizations are necessary for teens to stay well. Certain illnesses, such as chickenpox, pose a greater risk to adults and teenagers than to younger ones. Hepatitis B and HPV vaccinations, among others, offer protection against several cancers in later life.
The vaccine schedule in India is prepared by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. For guidance on your teenage vaccination journey, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider, as they are well-equipped to assist you.
Like any other medicines, vaccines too can have certain side effects such as redness at the site of injection, mild fever, and nausea. However, these are mild symptoms and generally go away on their own.
References:
- https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/adolescents-health-risks-and-solutions
- https://iapindia.org/pdf/vaccine-information/HPV-VACCINE.pdf
- https://www.who.int/health-topics/adolescent-health/#tab=tab_1
- https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/immunizations/Pages/Immunizations-for-Teenagers-and-Young-Adults.aspx
- https://www.unicef.org/india/stories/should-you-get-your-children-vaccinated-against-covid-19
- https://www.who.int/news/item/16-05-2017-more-than-1-2-million-adolescents-die-every-year-nearly-all-preventable
- https://www.indianpediatrics.net/jan2021/jan-44-53.htm
- https://iapindia.org/pdf/vaccine-information/Tdap-VACCINE.pdf
- https://www.indianpediatrics.net/feb2019/feb-101-104.htm
- https://www.indianpediatrics.net/feb2019/feb-101-104.htm
- https://www.unicef.org/india/stories/know-your-childs-vaccination-schedule
