NEWPORT NEWS — Virginia schools require immunizations for entry into kindergarten, seventh grade, and 12th grade, and the Hampton and Peninsula Health Districts are offering required immunizations at several clinics during the month of August.
Included are vaccines to protect against preventable diseases such as meningitis, measles, pertussis (whooping cough) and others.
“Vaccinations our crucial to protect students, school staff, and the broader community,” says Hampton and Peninsula Health Districts’ Health Director, Dr. Natasha Dwamena. “When your child is up-to-date on their vaccinations, schools can minimize the spread of infectious diseases, safeguard vulnerable individuals, and maintain a healthy learning environment.”
HPHD stresses vaccines are safe and effective and a child’s best defense against infectious disease, citing Measles as a recent example. The highly contagious disease that was declared eliminated in the year 2000 is experiencing a surge in the U.S. with more than 1,200 cases reported so far this year, including three cases in Virginia, according to HPHD.
The Virginia Department of Health encourages parents to talk with their child’s health care provider about recommended vaccinations. Vaccines are available through pediatricians, pharmacies and all local health departments. Check in advance to see if appointments are necessary.
Special Back-To-School walk-in vaccination clinics are being held at the following dates, times and locations:
- Peninsula Health District:
- Peninsula Health Center
- Aug. 15, 19, 20, 25, 26, and 27 — First 75 walk-in clients only each day — 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
- Aug. 22 — First 85 walk-in clients only each day — 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
- Hampton Health District:
- Hampton Health Center
- Aug. 14, 18, 21, 25, 26, and 27 — First 75 walk-in clients only each day — 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
- Aug. 22 — First 85 walk-in clients only each day — 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Bring a copy of your child’s vaccination record. Request a vaccination record here. Bring a health insurance card if you have one. Children who are uninsured can still be vaccinated at low or no cost through the Virginia Vaccines for Children program, which offers free vaccines to eligible children. Locate A VVFC Provider by simply entering your zip code on the VDH website.
For more information, contact the Hampton Health District at 757-728-2162 or the Peninsula Health District at 757-594-7410.
