AAP publishes 2012 childhood immunization schedule

The American Academy of Pediatrics recently released a policy statement that changes vaccine recommendations for three vaccines: human papillomavirus, meningococcal and influenza.

The policy statement includes updated immunization schedules for three groups, which include children aged 0 to 6 years, those aged 7 to 18 years and a catch-up schedule for children with late or incomplete immunizations.

The AAP now recommends that all boys aged 11 or 12 years receive the human papillomavirus vaccine in a three-dose series, and patients can begin the series at 9 years of age. The meningococcal vaccine can now be given to children aged 9 months if they are residents or travelers to countries with epidemic disease or at increased risk of developing meningococcal disease. In addition, routine immunization with meningococcal vaccine should begin for those aged 11 to 12 years, with a booster dose administered at 16 years.

The recommendations also state that influenza vaccine should be given in two doses for children aged 6 months to 8 years who did not receive at least one dose of the vaccine in 2010-2011. Children who received one dose last season need only one dose for the 2011-2012 influenza season.

The immunization schedule is based on recommendations from the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices and also is endorsed by the American Academy of Family Physicians, according to an AAP press release.

This updated schedule will be published in Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report on Feb. 9. For more information, go to the CDC immunization schedule website.

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