Why vaccines matter after transplant
Your teen’s anti-rejection medications protect their transplanted organ, but also weaken the immune system, making it harder to fight infections. Vaccines act like an extra layer of protection to prevent infection. They help protect your teen’s transplanted organ and overall health by lowering the risk of serious illnesses. Staying up to date on vaccines can mean fewer infections, fewer hospital visits, and more time for school, activities, and everyday life.
Are vaccines safe for my teen after transplant?
Yes. Most vaccines are safe and recommended for teens after a transplant, but some vaccines are not safe for people with weakened immune systems. These are called live vaccines. Live vaccines contain a weakened form of a virus. While safe for healthy individuals, they can cause problems for transplant recipients. An example of a live vaccine is the chickenpox vaccine (Varivax™).
Your teen’s transplant team will tell you and your teen:
- Which vaccines are safe
- Which vaccines should be avoided
- When each vaccine should be given
Always check with the transplant team before your teen receives any vaccines. Your transplant team will monitor your teen’s vaccine record and will review updates with them at least every year. Your teen should maintain their vaccine record through your provider’s portal when possible.
When can my teen start getting vaccines again after transplant?
Your teen’s body needs time to heal after transplant surgery. Most transplant teams recommend starting or catching up on vaccines about 3–6 months after transplant. Some vaccines, such as the flu vaccine and COVID‑19 vaccine, may be given earlier if the transplant team feels it is safe. Your team will provide a vaccine plan based on your teen’s health, transplant type, and risks.
Vaccines your teen may need
Depending on your teen’s age and vaccine history, the transplant team may recommend some of the following:
Even if your teen has had vaccines before their transplant, they may still need booster doses. The transplant team will request blood tests to check immunity and guide vaccine decisions.
Protecting your teen at home
Family members and close contacts play an important role in protecting your teen’s health.
- Make sure everyone living in your home is up to date on their vaccines.
- This reduces the chance of bringing infections home to your teen.
If you have questions about which vaccines family members should receive, ask the transplant team.
FAQs for Parents and Caregivers
Can vaccines give my teen the disease?
No. The vaccines recommended by the transplant team are safe and cannot cause the illnesses they protect against.
What if my teen had vaccines before the transplant?
That’s okay. But because immunity can decrease after transplant, booster shots may be needed.
What if my teen is afraid of shots?
This is very common. Let the transplant team know. They can offer strategies to make vaccines less stressful, such as comfort techniques or extra support during visits.
Parent Vaccine Checklist
My Teen and I:
☐ have an updated copy of their vaccine record (from their pediatrician or primary care provider)
☐ know when their next vaccines are due
☐ have reviewed safe vaccines with the transplant team
☐ know that our family members are up to date on vaccines
☐ have told the transplant team about any side effects experienced from vaccines
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