Prevnar 13

The new pneumococcal vaccine Prevnar 13 takes the place of Prevnar 7. Children up to age 59 months should receive at least one dose of Prevnar 13 even if they have already received all 4 doses of Prevnar 7. The Prevnar 13 is effective against more strains of the disease. The state of Louisiana is requiring that all children under the age of 2 years receive one dose of PCV 13.

Gardasil Vaccine for Girls and Now Also for Boys

The human papillomavirus vaccine Gardasil is now approved for boys age 9 years and up. The vaccine for boys is effective against anal cancer, oral cancer and genital warts. Gardasil protects girls from cervical cancer, anal cancer and genital warts. Cervarix, another HPV vaccine, is also effective against cervical cancer in girls.

Private Insurance that Covers Vaccines

Effective October 1, 2012, children who are fully insured by private insurance are not eligible to receive vaccines through our program. Eligible children are children with insurance that does NOT cover vaccines,children with Medicaid and LaChip, private insurance supplemented with Medicaid or those children who have NO insurance. If you have any questions please call our office 504-733-3268 before going to the bus.

Meningococcal Vaccine

All 11-year-olds should be vaccinated with the meningococcal vaccine. Since current data shows that the vaccine wanes after several years, it is now recommended that a booster dose be administered at age 16 years. For adolescents who receive the first dose at age 11 through 15 years, a one time booster dose should be administered, preferably at age 16 through 18 years. Adolescents who receive their first dose of MCV4 at or after 16 years, do NOT need a booster dose. Please call our office if you have any questions regarding this vaccine.