Add Immunizations to your Back-to-School List
With the new school year fast approaching, it´s a good time for parents to make sure their kids are up to date on their immunizations. State law requires certain immunizations for children in schools and daycares.
The first step is to find out which vaccines your child needs. You can do this by checking with your health care provider or by going to the Wisconsin Immunization Registry for a record of your child’s immunizations.
Next, make an appointment to get the immunizations your child needs. Immunizations can usually be done at any health care visit, including sports physicals, checkups or some sick visits.
It is not just pre-K and kindergarteners who need immunizations. According to Diane McHugh, Immunization Coordinator for PHMDC, “students entering 6th grade are required to have a Tdap vaccine to prevent tetanus and whooping cough. Also recommended at this age are a dose of Meningococcal vaccine to prevent meningitis, and the HPV immunization for both boys and girls, to prevent certain cancers. Kids heading off to college will also need some shots, so be sure to check with their provider for any immunizations not completed.” Influenza vaccines are also recommended for everyone 6 months and older and should be available in September.
Immunizations are safe and effective. They offer protection from 16 potentially serious diseases. Immunizing your child also helps protect others with weak immune systems, such as infants, older adults and those on chemotherapy. The more people immunized in a community, the less disease we see.
PHMDC offers FREE immunizations by appointment to children who do not have health insurance, or who are on Medical Assistance or BadgerCare. Call (608) 266-4821 to make an appointment or for questions. Click here for more details.
For more detailed information on immunizations for pre-teens and teens
