National Immunization Awareness Month: Prepare Your Kids for Back to School

As the new school year approaches, ensuring our children are up-to-date on their vaccinations is crucial. August is National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM), a time to remind parents of the importance of vaccines in protecting children against serious diseases. With classrooms soon filling up again, now is the perfect time to check that your child's immunizations are current.

Why Vaccinations Matter

Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to safeguard your child’s health. They protect against a range of diseases, including measles, mumps, and whooping cough—illnesses that can spread quickly in a school environment. Staying current on vaccinations helps to protect not only your child but also those who are vulnerable, such as infants, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.

Back-to-School Vaccination Checklist

Review the Schedule

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides an up-to-date vaccination schedule for children, detailing the recommended vaccines for different age groups. Before the school year begins, check the CDC’s recommended vaccine schedule to see which vaccines your child needs before school starts. Here are the key age groups to focus on:

Infants and Toddlers (Birth to 6 years): This group requires multiple doses of vaccines to protect against diseases like polio, hepatitis B, and influenza.

School-Aged Children (7 to 18 years): Ensure they receive boosters for vaccines like Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) and any missed doses from the earlier years.

Preteens and Teens: For older children, particularly those entering middle school, additional vaccines such as the HPV vaccine and the meningococcal vaccine are recommended.

Consult with Your Pediatrician

If you're unsure about which vaccines your child has received, schedule a visit with your pediatrician. They can provide guidance and administer any necessary vaccines. If you have any concerns or questions about any of the recommended vaccines, they can provide you with evidence-based information to make informed decisions.

Keep Records Updated

Ensure that your child's school has the most recent vaccination records on file. Many schools require proof of immunization before children can attend classes.

Learn more at https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/.

POSTTracey Carlsonvaccines, vaccination, childhood vaccination, back-to-school, ready for school, HPM, SB