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Teenage immunisations

This guide is for teenagers aged 13 to 18, and their parents or guardians. It explains:

  • the immunisations that are given to teenagers, usually when they are still at school
  • why these immunisations are needed, and
  • what side effects they might have.

The guide also answers some of the most common questions about these immunisations. In particular, it describes the Td/IPV vaccine that boosts the protection you got as a child against tetanus (T), diphtheria (d) and polio (IPV – inactivated polio vaccine).

If you have any questions or want more information, talk to your doctor, school nurse or the nurse at your doctor’s surgery.

You can also visit the website at www.immunisation.nhs.uk