VACCINATIONS
STIKO recommends that teens aged 9 to 14 receive the 2nd booster for full protection against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, and polio. The U11 and J1 checkups are ideal times to check vaccination status.
This booster can be administered as a 3+1 or 4-in-1 vaccination, ensuring comprehensive protection for your teenager.
Additionally, to maintain lifelong immunity, it's essential to continue administering booster shots every 10 years thereafter.
While the vaccine is generally well-tolerated, it’s common to experience mild side effects like redness or swelling at the injection site, swollen lymph nodes, and overall symptoms such as shivering, fatigue, or gastrointestinal issues. A fever of 39°C and upper respiratory tract infections are also possible. These side effects typically resolve within a few days.
It's understandable to have concerns about your child receiving vaccinations, but the benefits of protecting them against serious and potentially life-threatening illnesses far outweigh any temporary discomfort they may experience. Please don't hesitate to speak with your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about the vaccination process.
MORE DETAILS:
Diphtheria is a serious and potentially life-threatening bacterial infection that can affect the throat and skin. It spreads through airborne droplets and can cause severe complications such as breathing difficulties, heart rhythm problems, and organ damage. Symptoms may include a sweet smell, swelling in the throat that blocks the airway, and greasy skin or wounds if the skin is affected. Treatment involves antiserum and antibiotics to prevent further complications. Unfortunately, despite intensive medical care, about 5-10% of people with diphtheria still die.
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Tetanus, also known as lockjaw, is a serious bacterial infection that can be life-threatening. It causes painful muscle contractions and can make it difficult to open your mouth or swallow. The bacteria responsible for tetanus live in soil and can enter the body through small cuts or wounds. Symptoms may include facial muscle spasms, difficulty opening the mouth, and spasms of the larynx and chest muscles, which can lead to suffocation. Despite advanced medical treatment, 10-20% of tetanus patients still die, often due to breathing problems or heart failure. Tetanus is a global health concern, and vaccination remains the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from this dangerous infection. Even early treatment cannot always prevent death.
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Polio, also called childhood paralysis, is a serious and potentially disabling disease caused by viruses. It spreads through contaminated food or water with feces and can cause complications like permanent paralysis, muscle wasting, slowed bone growth, and joint damage. Even years after infection, muscle pain and paralysis may still happen in a condition known as post-polio syndrome. While polio has been wiped out in most parts of the world, it still exists in some countries and regions, and it can be imported into areas where it has been eliminated. Sadly, neither polio nor post-polio syndrome can be treated, but symptoms can be managed to improve quality of life.
You have the option to receive the Polio Shot as a standalone vaccine.
Also Interesting:
>>>Polioviruses in German wastewater samples: What parents should know<<<
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Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a serious and potentially life-threatening disease caused by bacteria in the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It is very contagious and can affect everyone in a household if they are not protected. Whooping cough can last for several weeks to months. It begins with flu-like symptoms that last about two weeks, followed by weeks of coughing fits that can cause vomiting, especially at night. Recovery may take several more weeks. Infants are especially at risk for complications from whooping cough, with 15-20% of hospitalized patients (mostly unvaccinated young infants) developing pneumonia or otitis media. Coughing fits can also lead to groin and rib fractures and may cause permanent damage to the lungs or bronchi.
Vaccines are an effective way to reduce the risk of infection and serious complications. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to speak with your healthcare provider.
Last updated: 09/2025
Resources:
https://www.impfen-info.de/impfempfehlungen/fuer-jugendliche-12-17-jahre/diphtherie/
https://www.impfen-info.de/impfempfehlungen/fuer-jugendliche-12-17-jahre/keuchhusten-pertussis/
https://www.impfen-info.de/impfempfehlungen/fuer-jugendliche-12-17-jahre/polio-kinderlaehmung/
https://www.impfen-info.de/impfempfehlungen/fuer-jugendliche-12-17-jahre/tetanus-wundstarrkrampf/