Teenage Vaccinations at Concierge Medicine of Cincinnati
Teen Vaccines: Safeguarding Young Futures
Teenagers need specialized healthcare too! At Concierge Medicine of Cincinnati, we offer vital vaccinations and personalized care for patients as young as 14. From HPV to meningitis prevention, we're here to protect your teen's health as they grow into adulthood.
Note: The following information is for routine vaccinations and may not apply to patients with immunocompromising conditions, medications, or serious medical problems.
Welcoming Adolescents to Our Practice
Did you know we see adolescents and teenagers in our office? This population is in an important transitional stage of their lives, and establishing a trusting relationship with a provider who can follow them through adulthood is often valuable. Teenagers may no longer feel comfortable at a pediatrician's office, and our practice is here to help!
Our Providers and Plans
Suzanne Kahle, a family nurse practitioner, sees patients as young as 14.
Our other providers can see patients from 16 years of age and older.
We offer a young adult and telehealth plan that's great for teenagers or those headed off to college.
We're happy to make consultation appointments to discuss vaccinations or offer them to non-member children.
The Importance of Teenage Vaccinations
Vaccination is a crucial aspect of maintaining health during adolescence. Here are some key vaccines recommended for teenagers:
1. Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Usually given as a booster shot around ages 11-12
Protects against whooping cough, which can be severe in infants and young children
Given every 10 years through adulthood
Tetanus can enter your body through cuts or animal bites
2. HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
Protects against cancers caused by human papillomavirus, including cervical cancer, other genital cancers, and some types of head and neck cancers
Typically spread during sexual intercourse
Recommended for both boys and girls around ages 11-12 (2-part series, at least 5 months apart)
If given at 15 years or older, it's a 3-dose series
Routine vaccination indicated up until age 27 if not previously received
For ages 27-45, discuss with your healthcare provider
Important to instruct adolescents that condom use is still important, even after vaccination
3. MenACWY (Meningococcal Conjugate Vaccine)
Given around ages 11-12, with a booster at 16
Protects against several types of meningococcal bacteria that cause meningitis and blood infections
4. MenB (Meningococcal B Vaccine)
Often recommended for teens and young adults, especially those at higher risk (e.g., living in dormitories)
Protects against a different strain of meningococcal bacteria
Should be given prior to leaving for college
Typically a two-dose series given 6 months apart (our office usually carries Trumenba)
5. Influenza (Flu Vaccine)
Recommended annually for everyone, including teens
Helps prevent seasonal influenza and can reduce illness severity if contracted
We send an email when flu vaccines are in stock
6. COVID-19 Vaccine
Recommended at least annually for everyone
Ensure you've received the updated COVID booster
Our office currently doesn't stock the COVID vaccine, but local pharmacies can administer it
Protecting Health and Contributing to Public Wellness
These vaccines help protect against serious diseases and contribute to overall public health. It's advisable to check with a healthcare provider to ensure your vaccinations are up to date and to discuss any specific health needs or concerns.
Vaccine Administration at Our Office
We utilize Vaxcare (a third-party vaccine distributor) and can bill most insurances for vaccines administered in our office – during nurse visits or your routine appointments.
