In France, the Ministry of Health annually updates a vaccination schedule that outlines mandatory and recommended vaccines for all residents. For children born after January 1, 2018, eleven vaccines are compulsory. Infants begin vaccinations at eight weeks, with a series of six appointments. Booster shots are necessary at various ages, including for diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough. Special considerations apply in French Guiana for yellow fever, while annual flu vaccines are recommended for older adults and those with health conditions.
Understanding the Vaccination Schedule in France
In order to combat serious and potentially fatal diseases, as well as manage certain epidemics, the Ministry of Health and Access to Care in France releases an annual vaccination schedule. This schedule includes both mandatory and recommended vaccinations for all residents, irrespective of their nationality.
For children born on or after January 1, 2018, there are eleven vaccines that are compulsory. However, it’s crucial to note that being vaccinated in childhood does not guarantee lifelong immunity, as the necessity for boosters varies from one vaccine to another.
Initial Vaccination Timeline for Infants
Starting at just eight weeks old, infants begin their vaccination journey. The primary aim is to shield them from a range of diseases including diphtheria, tetanus, poliomyelitis, whooping cough, hepatitis B, measles, mumps, rubella, Haemophilus influenzae type B, meningococcus C, and pneumococcus, which can lead to pneumonia and meningitis.
This vaccination schedule consists of six appointments with combined vaccines, taking place at two months, four months, five months, eleven months, twelve months, and finally between sixteen and eighteen months. Following this protocol will provide several years of protection against these diseases.
Booster Shots for Enhanced Immunity
To maintain immunity against certain diseases, additional booster shots are required. Diphtheria, a highly contagious throat infection, and tetanus, a non-contagious but potentially fatal disease contracted through wounds, necessitate timely vaccinations. Poliomyelitis, a virus that affects the nervous system and can lead to paralysis, is also a significant concern.
After the initial infant vaccinations, a booster is administered at age six, followed by another between the ages of eleven and thirteen. Adults are then required to get a dTP booster every twenty years starting at age 25, with an increased recommendation for those aged 65 and older to receive boosters every ten years thereafter.
Additional Boosters and Recommendations
Regarding whooping cough, a booster is given at age six, again between eleven and thirteen, and a final booster around age 25. Without these boosters, whooping cough has been re-emerging among young adults. A catch-up vaccination is available for those who miss the booster by age 25, extending up to age 39. Certain professionals, including caregivers and early childhood professionals, are required to receive boosters every twenty years.
In French Guiana, vaccination against yellow fever is mandatory, providing lifelong protection. However, those vaccinated before the age of two may require a booster by age six, and further recommendations apply if the initial vaccination was over ten years ago or under specific health circumstances.
For seasonal influenza, an annual vaccine is necessary due to its limited effectiveness over a year. It is strongly recommended for everyone aged 65 and older, while younger individuals with chronic health conditions or pregnant women are also advised to receive it. Additionally, during an epidemic, the Covid-19 vaccine is highly encouraged for all, with people over 80 receiving two doses a year.