Are Your Child Immunizations Up to Date for the New School Year?
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As we are in the back-to-school season, it is important to review your child’s immunization records and be sure that they have all of their required vaccines. Not only will this allow them to attend school and participate in other events requiring vaccinations, but it will also help prevent illness among them and their peers. At Health Services of North Texas (HSNT), our dedicated team of providers is committed to helping keep you and your family healthy and happy this school year with comprehensive child and family immunizations available in Plano, Denton, and Wylie, TX. Keep reading to learn more about childhood immunizations, including which vaccines are required for school and how to find out if your child’s vaccines are up to date.
Do Texas schools require vaccinations?
Public schools in Texas require the following vaccinations, some of which only apply to students once they reach a certain grade level:
- Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis (DTap)
- Polio
- Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Varicella (Chickenpox)
- Meningococcal (MCV4)
Many of these vaccinations are administered at infancy, though repeat doses or boosters are required at a later time.
Why do schoolchildren require vaccinations?
Everyone should follow the CDC’s vaccination guidelines in order to stay as healthy as possible and prevent the spread of illness to others. In close-contact environments, like schools, dangerous viruses and diseases can spread quickly between unvaccinated people, making immunizations critical for avoiding widespread outbreaks.
How do I know if my child’s vaccinations are up to date?
At HSNT, we can provide a helpful vaccination card to keep track of your child’s immunizations. If you are unsure about your child’s vaccination status, we will work with you to help locate vaccination records and determine what additional vaccinations your child may need in preparation for the upcoming school year.
Are child vaccines dangerous?
Studies show that childhood immunizations are extremely safe, vital for your child’s overall health, and come with minimal risk of side effects. Following a vaccination appointment, be sure to monitor your child’s behavior and watch for any abnormal signs or symptoms. Some vaccines can cause mild and temporary side effects, like fever or lethargy, but these are typically nothing to be concerned about. However, we understand your worries and will be more than happy to discuss or evaluate any concerns you may have following your child’s immunization visit.
Should my child get the COVID vaccine before school starts?
With the COVID-19 vaccine now available to most school-aged children, many parents have questions about if they should get their child vaccinated prior to starting the new school year. There are a number of factors to consider when making this choice, and our knowledgeable team of providers will answer your questions and help you make a decision that you can feel comfortable and confident about. Keeping you and your family educated, safe, and healthy is our top priority.
Set your child up for success this school year by updating their child vaccinations in Denton County and Collin County
With so many things to do to get ready for school, it is easy to forget about your child’s immunization schedule. To find out what vaccines your child may need prior to school this year, call Health Services of North Texas – with convenient locations across Plano, Wylie, and Denton – to schedule your appointment with one of our caring providers today.