Vaccine schedules and procedures, 2007

Abstract

This article reviews the 2007 recommended childhood and adolescent immunization schedules; the catch-up immunization schedules for children and adolescents; the 2006-2007 recommended adult immunization schedule; recommended and minimum ages and intervals between vaccine doses; contraindications for immunization; and general guidelines on immunization procedures. With the exception of some formulations of influenza vaccines, all recommended childhood vaccines are thimerosal-free. Since 2005, changes in vaccine schedules affect the following vaccinations: hepatitis A, rotavirus, human papillomavirus, varicella, meningococcal, adult tetanus and diphtheria toxoids and acellular pertussis, and influenza. Minimal intervals between vaccines and vaccine precautions, contraindications, administration, and storage are reviewed. Sources of up-to-date vaccine information are presented.