The countdown is on and school will begin soon. Make sure your children’s immunizations are up to date. Those entering 7th grade and Kindergarten are required to have immunizations this year.
When entering kindergarten, your child needs additional doses of some vaccines, as well as a flu vaccine every year.
As protection from childhood vaccines wears off, adolescents need vaccines that will extend protection. Adolescents need protection from additional infections as well, before the risk of exposure increases. During early adolescence, your child needs three essential vaccines that will provide protection as he or she enters adulthood.
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine protects against infections that can cause certain cancers, as well as genital warts.
- Meningococcal conjugate vaccine protects against meningococcal disease, which can lead to meningitis, an infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord, as well as bloodstream infections.
- Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) vaccine protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough.
Tricounty Health will be holding a vaccination clinic at Vernal Middle School Aug. 6 and 7 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. We will also be having clinics at Roosevelt Jr High on Aug. 14 and 15 and Altamont High School on Aug. 14. For more information about your child’s vaccination status contact Tricounty Health or your healthcare provider today.