New Immunizations

There are several new immunizations that have been approved recently by the Food and Drug Immunization- either as new immunizations or new indications.

Menactra is an immunization to prevent meningitis. It is indicated for patients age 12-17. It also may be indicated in the future for infants and young children. Click here for more information on Menactra and meningitis

Gardasil is an immunization to prevent Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) in women. HPV is the cause of cervical cancer. To prevent HPV, it must be given before the initial exposure to the virus. For that reason, the recommendations are for it to be given at age 12. Of course there will be a catch up for girls and young women who have not received the immunization.

Rotatec is a series of 3 immunizations given to children age 2 to prevent rotavirus. Rotavirus is the largest cause of hospitalization of children for diarrhea.

Varicella immunization has been given to children to prevent chicken pox. It is now recommended for all individuals over age 60 to prevent, shingles, a painful skin condition related to partial immunity to the chicken pox virus.

Check with your health plan to see if these immunizations are covered.

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