Aug 14, 2010

As you are frantically trying to gather everything your child needs for back-to-school, don't forget about your child's health. Ensuring that your child receives all of their scheduled immunizations is still the best way to prevent some of the most serious diseases prevented by immunizations. Many schools will not let you register your child without current immunizations - make sure you have current records and that their immunizations are up-to-date.

Gather your child’s immunization records.

It is a good idea to keep current records of your child’s immunizations. You will need these records for school enrollment. Also, many camps and other programs require current copies. Places to look for child's immunization record:

• personal files (i.e. baby book, important documents)
• your child's pediatrician or other healthcare provider (clinic)
• your child's school (caution-some schools only keep records for a couple of years)
• try calling your local or state health department's immunization program

 

Make Sure Your Child’s Immunizations are Current

The Centers for Disease Control publishes a recommended schedule of what vaccines a child should receive and at what age. Here are copies of the schedules by age group:

• Immunization Schedule for Children 0 to 6 years old.
• Immunization Schedule for Children 7 years to 18 years old.
• Catch-up Immunization Schedule
  

For more information about vaccines and what diseases they prevent, please visit the Immunizations page.