The first day of school will be here before you know it, and now is the time to check vaccinations off your back-to-school to-do list. Your local health department is ready to help families beat the rush to complete their requirements, avoid long wait times and start the school year prepared.
All South Health District health departments offer back-to-school services during regular health department hours, Monday through Thursday, 8AM-5PM and Friday 8AM-2:30PM.
Immunizations that children may need before starting school include
Immunizations that children may need before starting school include
- Tdap
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) series
- Chickenpox
- MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
- Hepatitis A & B
- MCV4 (meningococcal conjugate vaccine)
- Other vaccines based on the individual’s vaccine records
Students entering the 7th grade need documentation of one dose of meningococcal vaccine (MCV4) and one dose of an adolescent pertussis (whooping cough) booster immunization (Tdap) to begin classes in the new school year.
Parents are also reminded that all students entering or transferring into 11th grade will need proof of an MCV4 vaccine, unless their first dose was received on or after their 16th birthday.
Every child in a Georgia school system (kindergarten-12th grade), attending a childcare facility, or a student of any age entering a Georgia school for the first time is required by law to have a Georgia Immunization Certificate, Form 3231.
In addition to vaccinations, Ear, Eye, Dental and Nutrition screenings form (Form 3300) are also available. Form 3300 is required for all students entering a Georgia school for the first time.
Some immunizations may be covered by the individual’s insurance provider. Standard clinic fees will apply for any vaccines or forms that are not covered by insurance.
For more information on immunizations visit http://dph.georgia.gov/immunization-section.
To find your local health department, CLICK HERE.