A Guide To Back-to-School Immunizations

As summer draws to a close, it’s time for parents to prepare their children for the upcoming school year. One of the most important tasks on that back-to-school checklist is ensuring your child is up-to-date on their immunizations. Vaccinations are crucial for protecting your child’s health and the health of their classmates by preventing the spread of infectious diseases. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about required and recommended vaccines for school-aged children.

Why Immunizations Are Important

Vaccinations are one of the most effective ways to prevent serious diseases. They train the immune system to recognize and fight specific viruses and bacteria. By getting your child vaccinated, you are protecting them and helping protect the entire community. When enough people are vaccinated, it creates herd immunity, making spreading diseases harder.

Required Vaccines for School

Each state has its own requirements for school vaccinations, but there are several common vaccines that are typically required across the country. Here’s a list of the most common ones:

DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis). This vaccine protects against three serious diseases: diphtheria, tetanus (lockjaw), and pertussis (whooping cough). Children should receive five doses of the DTaP vaccine at the following ages: 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 15-18 months, and 4-6 years. Vaccination is also required at 11-12 years old.

MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella). The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella (German measles). Two doses are required. The first dose is given at 12-15 months and the second at 4-6 years.

Varicella (Chickenpox). This vaccine protects against chickenpox. Children need two doses: the first at 12-15 months and the second at 4-6 years.

Polio (IPV). The polio vaccine protects against poliomyelitis, a disease that can cause paralysis. Four doses are given at 2 months, 4 months, 6-18 months, and 4-6 years.

Hepatitis B. The hepatitis B vaccine protects against the hepatitis B virus, which can cause liver disease. Three to four doses are required, typically given at birth, 1-2 months, and 6-18 months.

Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b). The Hib vaccine protects against Haemophilus influenzae type b, which can cause severe infections, and severe infections like meningitis, especially in young children. Three to four doses are given at 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, and 12-15 months.

Pneumococcal (PCV20). This vaccine protects against pneumococcal diseases, which can cause pneumonia, meningitis, bloodstream infections, and ear infections. Four doses are required at 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, and 12-15 months.

Influenza (Flu). The flu vaccine protects against the influenza virus. Annual vaccination is recommended for everyone starting at 6 months of age.

Meningococcal (MCV4). This vaccine protects against 4 strains of meningococcal disease, which can cause meningitis and bloodstream infections. Two doses are given; the first at 11-12 years and the second at 16 years.

Additional Recommended Vaccines

In addition to the required vaccines, there are a few others that are recommended for older children and teenagers:

HPV (Human Papillomavirus). The HPV vaccine protects against human papillomavirus, which can cause cervical cancer in women as well as several other types of cancer in both men and women. Two to three doses are recommended starting at ages 11-12.

Meningococcal (Men B). Protects against a 5th strain of meningococcal disease, which isn’t covered by the MCV4 vaccine.  It is recommended at age 16, with a second dose 1-6 months later, depending on the manufacturer.

State-Specific Requirements

While the vaccines listed above are commonly required, each state may have specific requirements or additional necessary vaccines. For the current vaccination requirements here in Missouri, visit the Missouri Department of Health, or download the schedule here.

Preparing for Vaccination

Scheduling Appointments

It’s a good idea to schedule your child’s vaccination appointments well before the school year starts. This will give you plenty of time to address any concerns or questions you might have with your healthcare provider.

Bringing Records

When you go to your child’s vaccination appointment, bring their immunization records. This will help the healthcare provider determine which vaccines your child still needs.

Addressing Common Concerns

It’s natural for parents to have questions and concerns about vaccines. Here are some common questions and their answers:

Are Vaccines Safe?

Yes, vaccines are safe. They undergo rigorous testing and are continuously monitored for safety, but severe side effects are rare.

What Are the Side Effects?

Most vaccine side effects are mild, such as a sore arm or a low-grade fever. These usually go away on their own within a few days.

Do Vaccines Cause Autism?

No, vaccines do not cause autism. This myth has been debunked by numerous studies.

Our Commitment to Your Child’s Health

Keeping your child’s immunizations up-to-date is one of the best ways to protect their health and ensure they are ready for school. Vaccinations prevent the spread of serious diseases and keep our communities safe.

Don’t wait until the last minute—schedule your child’s vaccination appointments today and make sure their immunization records are up-to-date. Stay informed and proactive about your child’s health to ensure a safe and healthy school year ahead.

At Community Choice Pediatrics, we understand that navigating your child’s health can be complex and sometimes overwhelming. That’s why we are committed to providing you with the most current information and guidance on vaccinations. Our team of experienced healthcare providers is always available to discuss any concerns you may have and to assist in creating a vaccination schedule that is tailored to your child’s specific needs.

If you have any questions about your child’s immunization schedule or if you need to schedule an appointment, please visit our website. You can easily book a session with one of our experienced practitioners at Community Choice Pediatrics. Together, we can ensure a healthy and happy year for all our children!