August 11, 2016 – Getting vaccinated according to the recommended immunization schedule is one of the most important things a parent can do to protect their child’s health. Diseases can quickly spread among groups of children who aren’t vaccinated. Whether it’s a baby starting at a new child care facility, a toddler heading to preschool, a student going back to elementary, middle or high school – or even a college freshman – parents should check their child’s vaccination records.
When children are not vaccinated, they are at increased risk for disease and can spread disease to others in their play groups, child care centers, classrooms and communities – including babies who are too young to be fully vaccinated and people with weakened immune systems due to cancer and other health conditions.
Beginning in January 2016, California’s new law SB277 now requires children who are entering child care or school to be vaccinated against certain diseases. Colleges and universities may have their own requirements, especially for students living in a dormitory. Parents should check with their child’s doctor, school or the local health department to learn about the requirements in their state or county.
The Nevada County Public Health Department is holding two “Vaccines for Children” Back to School immunization clinics, one on Tuesday, August 16th, 12pm to 4 pm and Wednesday, August 17th, 12pm to 4pm at the Grass Valley Veteran’s Hall multipurpose room at 255 So. Auburn Street, Grass Valley.
The Vaccines for Children Program is for children 18 and younger, who are uninsured, or have Medi-Cal or Medi-Cal Managed Care, or whose insurance does not cover vaccines, or is Native American or Alaskan Native. Limited amounts of Tdap and MMR will be available for all others for a nominal administration fee.
Your child’s shot record and, if applicable, Medi-Cal card will be required for vaccine administration. For more information, please call 530-265-7265