The Open Vaccine Journal

2011, 4 : 3-12
Published online 2011 June 20. DOI: 10.2174/1875035401104010003
Publisher ID: TOVACJ-4-3

Immunization in Adolescents: Past, Present and Future

Chiara Mameli , Valentina Fabiano and Gian Vincenzo Zuccotti
Department of Pediatrics, L.Sacco Hospital, University of Milan, via G.B. Grassi 74, 20157 Milano, Italy

ABSTRACT

In the past, immunization programs worldwide mainly focused on the delivery of infant and early childhood vaccines. An increasing awareness of the importance of investing in adolescents’ health has led to the introduction of new vaccines targeted specifically to adolescents over the last ten years: this has improved the adolescent’s opportunities to protect from certain diseases for which they are at an increased risk. Safe and effective vaccines against human papilloma virus, Neisseria meningitides and Bordetella pertussis are recommended in many parts of the world; nevertheless, vaccination coverage in this age group is relatively low compared to coverage in infants. Barriers to adolescent immunization are believed to be complex and multifactorial but overcoming these barriers will be of primary importance for the future.

Keywords:

scents, immunization, vaccine, vaccine acceptance.