IN teens among most protected from infectious diseases

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (WANE) - According to the most recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention National Immunization Survey for Teens, Indiana teenagers are among the most well protected in the nation from certain infectious diseases.

Hoosier teens are first in the nation for meningococcal vaccine coverage and second in the nation for Tdap coverage. The Tdap vaccine protects against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis, which are common childhood illnesses.

“These are successes that should be celebrated. The rates are clearly a result of the increased immunization requirements implemented in schools over the past few years and they have exceeded our expectations. This is a great thing for our kids," said Indiana State Health Commissioner Gregory Larkin, M.D. 

Only two other states besides Indiana have a 90 percent or higher meningococcal vaccine coverage rate. The national average is 78 percent for Tdap vaccine and 71 percent for meningococcal vaccine.

To learn more about immunization requirements in Indiana, visit the Indiana State Department of Health’s website .

For more information about teen vaccines, visit the CDC’s website .