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AAP Vaccine Recommendations vs Other Countries

How do the AAP-recommended vaccines compare to what is done in other countries?

In the United States, we are fortunate to have a number of vaccines that are not normally used in other countries. Many countries of the world do not have the resources to provide immunizations to their children.

Our vaccine schedule is a bit different than that of other countries. In some cases, this is because the timing of infections is earlier. For example, infections caused by Haemophilus influenzae type B occur very early in Native Americans and Alaska Natives. The types of vaccines recommended for an area are based on the infections common in that area. In Asia, children receive a vaccine against Japanese encephalitis virus. This is not needed in the United States, where this virus is very rare.

Travelers often need additional vaccines for diseases like Japanese encephalitis or typhoid fever. Before you take your child on an international vacation, check with your pediatrician to see if your child needs any additional vaccines.

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