Vaccinations are a cornerstone of preventive healthcare, especially in a child’s growing years. While most essential vaccines are administered in infancy and early childhood, many parents wonder: “Does my 10-year-old need any vaccinations?” The answer is yes.
In India, the immunization schedule recommends several important vaccines for 10-year-old children to boost immunity and protect against diseases that become more relevant during adolescence.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about vaccination for 10 year old kids—which vaccines are recommended, their benefits, Indian vaccination guidelines, and FAQs to help Indian parents stay informed and confident.
You can also visit kidscur.com for more parenting information!
Why Vaccination for 10 Year Old Kids are Important?
By the age of 10, a child has already received many vaccines in infancy and early childhood, but immunity from some of them starts to wane. Also, as your child prepares to enter adolescence, they are exposed to new environments and health risks. Vaccines ensure:
- Protection from vaccine-preventable diseases
- Community (herd) immunity
- Preparedness for school health requirements
- Reduced risk of disease spread to younger siblings and elders
Recommended Vaccination Schedule for 10-Year-Olds (India)
Here are the vaccines generally recommended for 10-year-old children as per the IAP (Indian Academy of Pediatrics) and the National Immunization Schedule:
1. Tdap Vaccine (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
- When: Once at 10 years of age
- Why: It’s a booster dose for children who received DTP earlier.
- Benefit: Protects against severe cough (whooping cough), lockjaw (tetanus), and throat infection (diphtheria).
2. HPV Vaccine (Human Papillomavirus)
- When: Can start at age 9–14 years
- Who: Girls (and now also boys in some guidelines)
- Why: Prevents cervical cancer and other cancers caused by HPV
- Note: Requires 2 doses if started between 9–14 years
3. Typhoid Booster
- When: Every 3 years after the first typhoid vaccine
- Why: Typhoid fever remains common in India due to water contamination
- Options: Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV) is preferred
4. Influenza Vaccine (Flu Shot)
- When: Annually (especially before monsoon and winter)
- Why: Flu viruses mutate yearly; seasonal vaccines help build new immunity
- Note: Recommended if the child has asthma, diabetes, or frequent respiratory infections
Indian Government vs. Private Immunization Recommendations
In India, vaccines are given under:
- National Immunization Schedule (NIS) – Public health system (free at government centers)
- IAP (Indian Academy of Pediatrics) Schedule – Followed by private pediatricians, includes additional vaccines like HPV, Flu, Chickenpox booster, etc.
| Vaccine | Government Schedule | IAP (Private) |
|---|---|---|
| Tdap | Yes | Yes |
| HPV | Not included | Yes |
| Typhoid booster | Not routine | Yes |
| Influenza | Not routine | Yes |
Additional Optional Vaccines for 10-Year-Olds
Some pediatricians recommend these depending on the child’s health and travel exposure:
🔹 Chickenpox (Varicella) Booster
- The second dose may be given if the first dose was taken before age 6
- Prevents complications like skin infections and shingles
🔹 Hepatitis A Booster
- Especially if the first dose was given between the ages of 1–2
🔹 MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) Booster
- A second booster may be given for complete protection
Are Catch-Up Vaccinations Possible at Age 10?
Absolutely! If your child missed any vaccines earlier, this is the right time to catch up. Your doctor may advise a revised immunization schedule including:
- Hepatitis B
- MMR
- Polio (IPV)
- Chickenpox
- DTP or Tdap
Pro tip: Carry your child’s vaccination card to the pediatrician for review. Many digital apps like KidsCur also track and remind you about due vaccines.
Side Effects of 10-Year Vaccines: What Parents Should Expect?
Most childhood vaccines are very safe. Some mild side effects may include:
- Fever (1–2 days)
- Pain or redness at the injection site
- Fatigue or mild headache (esp. after HPV or Tdap)
When to Call a Doctor:
- High-grade fever lasting more than 48 hours
- Persistent swelling
- Allergic reaction (rash, trouble breathing)
Are Vaccines Mandatory for School in India?
While not strictly mandatory everywhere, many schools require up-to-date vaccination records, especially:
- Tdap
- MMR
- Varicella
States like Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu have stricter school health programs. International schools may also ask for HPV and influenza vaccine records.
Immunity Boost: How Vaccines Work at Age 10?
At this age, your child’s immune system is stronger than in early childhood. Vaccines act as training tools, helping their body recognize and fight specific infections quickly if they’re exposed in the future.
Vaccines don’t just prevent illness—they reduce complications, hospitalizations, and long-term health issues. For example:
- HPV vaccine reduces cancer risk by over 90%
- Tdap booster prevents whooping cough outbreaks in schools
Cost of Vaccination for 10-Year-Olds in India
Here’s a general idea of the cost (in private clinics):
| Vaccine | Estimated Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Tdap | ₹500–₹1,000 |
| HPV (2 doses) | ₹2,500–₹3,500/dose |
| Typhoid | ₹600–₹1,000 |
| Influenza | ₹1,000–₹1,500/year |
| Chickenpox | ₹2,000–₹2,500 |
Tip: Government health centers provide Tdap and other basic vaccines for free under national programs.
Track Vaccines Easily with Digital Apps
Apps like KidsCur, Aarogya Setu, or your hospital’s portal can help you:
- Set reminders
- Store digital vaccination cards
- Track booster timelines
- Access nearby vaccination centers
Going digital ensures no vaccine is missed, especially in busy school years.
Conclusion
Vaccination is not just for infants—10-year-olds also need critical boosters and new vaccines to stay protected. In India, where exposure to infectious diseases is higher due to environmental and population factors, following the updated child vaccination schedule is essential.
By ensuring your 10-year-old is fully vaccinated, you’re safeguarding their health, reducing community risk, and setting the foundation for a healthier adolescence.
FAQs
1. Is it too late to give missed vaccines at age 10?
No, most missed vaccines can be given later as “catch-up” doses. Consult a pediatrician for a custom schedule.
2. Is the HPV vaccine safe for my 10-year-old daughter?
Yes, it’s recommended by WHO and IAP for girls aged 9–14 and is safe with minimal side effects.
3. Can my child get multiple vaccines in one visit?
Yes, pediatricians often administer more than one vaccine at a time, which is safe and efficient.
