The Cherokee County Public Health Department is offering school immunizations this month, which has been designated as National Immunization Awareness Month. 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. The vaccinations help keep children in their seats by reducing absences and help our school systems save money by keeping kids at school.
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Dr. Hiram Polk, commissioner of KDPH, said immunizations protect the health of children, and help to possibly decrease the spread of diseases. If you haven’t done so already, now is the time to check with your health care provider or local public health to find out what vaccines your child needs.
Beginning with the Fall 2016 school year, a new meningococcal vaccine requirement takes effect under Ohio Law. These vaccines not only protect the mother by preventing illnesses and complications, but also pass on protection to her baby before birth.
“As a parent of teenage children, I have made sure they are protected from preventable diseases through vaccinations – not just as infants, but throughout their lives”, said Michelle Kichline, Chester County commissioner, in a release. More information on the meningococcal vaccine requirements can be found at http://www.odh.ohio.gov/odhprograms/bid/immunization/imunchsc.aspx.
– A booster dose of diptheria-tetanus-acellular pertussis vaccine (DTap).
They also protect the other children in the school from those same things. Certain vaccinations are recommended based on a person’s age, occupation or health conditions.
“Preventative healthcare is many times forgotten in the uninsured patient who seeks care for the acute health problems only”, said Mary Wirshup, vice president of Medical Affairs at the county’s Community Volunteers in Medicine, in a release.
“Thanks to the Chester County Health Department, patients who come to our clinic are able to get vaccines at no charge”, Wirshup said. If you are unsure about insurance coverage, please ask staff for assistance.
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Melanie Turner, a family nurse practitioner and the Regional Manager for MinuteClinic locations inside select CVS Pharmacy stores throughout the Houston area, urges parents to be educated on the importance of getting their children immunized. “Fast Vax Facts” is a new app featuring valuable, pediatricianapproved immunization resources for parents and guardians.
