Summer is Almost Over and Kids are Heading Back to School Are your child’s immunizations up-to-date?

East Wenatchee, WA— Back to school is an annual reminder to make sure children are fully vaccinated. Vaccines are the safest and most effective means of protecting children from potentially serious diseases and stopping the spread of disease. Washington State requires children to be up-to-date on vaccinations before enrolling in school or licensed childcare, in order to protect the health of all students. Parents can find the vaccines required for school and childcare attendance on the Washington Department of Health Vaccine Requirements webpage: Parents can find the vaccines required for school and childcare attendance on the Washington State Department of Health Vaccine Requirements webpage.

“We are asking all parents to verify that their children are up-to-date on their immunizations.” states Carol McCormick, Nursing Director for the Chelan-Douglas Health District. “Immunizations are an extremely important measure in protecting children from serious communicable diseases.”

New Varicella (chickenpox) Requirement

All students are now required to be fully vaccinated with 2 doses of the Varicella vaccine or show other proof of immunity to the disease. Teens are at higher risk for severe disease complications. The new requirement for children in grades 9-12 will help protect these young people.

HPV and Meningococcal Vaccine Important for Pre-Teens

Parents and teens are strongly encouraged to talk to their healthcare provider about two vaccines that are recommended for all pre-teens at 11-12 years of age: HPV vaccine and Meningococcal vaccine. The HPV vaccine prevents most types of this virus that cause cervical and other cancers. The immune response to this vaccine is better in pre-teens. The meningococcal vaccine protects against the devastating effects of the bacteria that cause meningitis. Meningococcal disease can lead to death or life-long complications in less than 48 hours.

No-Cost Vaccines Available at Participating Providers

The Vaccines for Children program provides no-cost vaccinations for eligible children. Contact the Health District for information on eligibility and to find a participating provider at 509-886-6400.

Flu Vaccinations

Flu season follows fast on the heels of the new school year. The best way to protect against the flu is to get vaccinated every year. The CDC recommends all people, ages 6 months and older, including pregnant women, get vaccinated.

Vaccination Requirements

• Vaccines required for Child Care or Preschool

• Required Immunizations for School Year 2016-2017