Teenagers 12 to 18 years

Thanks to immunisation, diseases such as polio have disappeared in the UK, which is why it’s so important to get your jabs. However, these diseases could come back as they are still around in many countries throughout the world.

Although you were probably immunised against tetanus, diphtheria and polio as a child, and may still have some protection, you still need a Td/IPV booster to complete your routine immunisations and give you longer-term protection. Teenagers who have not had two doses of the MMR vaccine should ensure they are protected.


The HPV vaccine, given to girls aged 12 to 13, protects against cervical cancer.

Immunisations at 12 to 13 years (girls):

HPV vaccine
Protects against cervical cancer.

Immunisations at 12 to 18 years:

Influenza (Flu) vaccine*

Protects against seasonal flu.

Pneumococcal vaccine*

Protects against one of the most common causes of meningitis.

Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR)

Protects against measles, mumps and rubella. This is offered to teenagers that have not had two doses of the vaccine.


*Advised for young people with heart, lung, kidney, liver or other long-term health problems.

Immunisations at 13 to 18 years (all):

Td/IPV vaccine

Protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and polio.

More information:

A guide to teenage immunisations from 12 to 18 years of age
An overview of the routine immunisations offered to teenagers to protect them from serious diseases.

Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR): Making sure you are protected
An overview of what the MMR vaccine is and why it’s important to have two doses of MMR.

For advice and information on any health topic, speak to your doctor or school nurse, or call NHS Inform on 0800 22 44 88 (Textphone 18001 0800 22 44 88; 8am -10pm, 7 days; NHS Inform also provide an interpreting service).