Vaccinating Teens | Video

Amy Fox | 3/19/2013

National statistics are showing that teens are falling behind on their vaccinations. But, what`s the situation like in North Dakota?

While state law requires adolescents, 11-19 years old, to have a series of vaccinations to go to school, some parents are not keeping their teens up-to-date on the state`s recommended shots.

First District Health Unit in Minot says parents don`t understand the importance of the vaccines, are worried about the safety and side effects, or don`t finish the series. During the next 4-5 months, First District Health may be contacting you about your teen`s immunization record.

"We`ll send out a year at a time and it will just be a reminder, according to the North Dakota state registry, that you might be missing one or more of the recommended vaccinations. And, to call us, the pediatrics or their doctor, just to get up-to-date,” said First District Health Vaccine Coordinator Melissa Fettig.

For a complete list of recommended and required vaccines, go to www.ndhealth.gov.

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