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    • 17 AUG 17
    Kids Going Back to School? Be Sure Vaccinations Are Up To Date

    Kids Going Back to School? Be Sure Vaccinations Are Up To Date

    Your child may already have a school supply list and schedule for the upcoming school year, but do you have an up-t0-date immunization record? Every state requires vaccinations for children entering public schools and most private schools do too. Schedule your child’s checkup now to ensure he or she is ready for school, sports, and activities.

    Not sure what shots are needed? Your child’s school can provide a list of the required vaccinations for students. Call your child’s healthcare provider to get a copy of your child’s immunization record or schedule a visit to catch up on vaccines your child needs based on age and health history.

    WHY VACCINATE?

    As a parent, you want to do everything in your power for you child’s health and safety. Childhood diseased such as measles and polio might seem like a distant threat, but it’s important to vaccinate against these diseases in order to keep them at bay. Childhood vaccines have prevented 322 million illnesses for children born from 1994-2013, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). That’s a big win for vaccines! Here’s why you should make vaccination a top priority on your child’s back-to-school list:

    • Help kids stay healthy. Staying current with recommended vaccines won’t protect kids from everything, but it will protect against some of the most dangerous illnesses. Vaccines help protect your child from serious diseases like measles, mumps, and meningitis.
    • Vaccines are safe and effective. In most cases, vaccines are effective and either cause no side effects or very minor side effects (e.g., mild fever or soreness at the injection site). Opting out of recommended vaccinations is a much greater risk.
    • Protect those who are vulnerable. Vaccines also prevent the spread of illness to others. They help protect everyone your child is around, including babies, elderly people, and people with health problems.

    SCHEDULE YOUR CHILD’S SHOTS

    Children should get regularly schedules shots at checkups. Not sure what shots your child needs and when? Call your child’s doctor. In addition, children 6 months and older should get a flu shot every year, unless the child has an allergy to chicken eggs or other special circumstances. (Check with your doctor.)

    For more information on immunizations for infants, children, and teens, visit the CDC website.