Avoid the Back-to-School Rush and get Your Child’s Immunizations and Screenings Early

District 2 Public Health encourages you to plan early for back-to-school immunizations and health screenings.  Ensure your children are ready to begin the upcoming school year by getting them up-to-date on their school health requirements. Beat the rush, and get your children in today for their routine vaccines and health screenings.  “Certain age groups have specific requirements for their back-to-school immunizations,” says Leyna Mashburn, District 2 Immunization Coordinator.  “It is important to check with your medical provider early to determine what, if any, vaccines are needed for your child.”  Last year, the state of Georgia added a new meningitis vaccine requirement for 11th graders.  If you are unsure of Georgia’s school requirements, now is the time to check with your children’s doctor, school, or the local health department to determine what is needed.  Some health departments will partner with local schools and organizations for back-to-school events in July and August.  Even in counties having these special events, you may still visit your local health department during regular business hours for routine immunizations and health screens.  For those who are uninsured or anyone with insurance that does not cover vaccines, the cost for children’s vaccines is $21 per vaccine.  Medicaid and some private insurances are accepted. Contact your county health department for more information about your specific insurance plan.  For a list of back-to-school health events available in your county and for health department hours and locations visit phdistrict2.org.  To learn more about Georgia’s school health requirements, visit the Georgia DPH website.