Has your child been vaccinated before heading back to school?

Hard to believe, but school is almost back in session and while preparation is underway for the big day, many parents often forget about the shots their kids need before they start the new school year.

The type of shots needed for each child really depends on their age and while a lot of these shots are optional, there are many shots that are required in order for your child to attend school.

Many parents may feel like this is a tedious task, but it truly is for you and your child’s best interest in preventing the spread of disease. Many illnesses or infections can also affect adults as well so it is important that your child gets checked and that they are up to date on their shots so that you as a parent can stay healthy too.

“We’re in the middle of our back to school clinics right now. It started on Monday and runs through August 3rd. Monday through Friday. Starts at 8:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Make sure when you bring your children, that you bring their shot record, their birth certificate, picture ID, current electric bill or utility bill that has your name and address on it,” said Kathy Ward, Nursing Supervisor, Yuma County Health Department.

There is no need to make an appointment, you can just walk in. If you don’t have insurance, shots are $10 a child, cash only and that includes all of your child’s shots, not just one. The clinic will go over exactly what vaccinations your child is getting and what diseases it’s protecting them against, plus what the usual side effects associated with each one are.

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