Add Immunizations to Your Back to School Checklist

Posted on 07/19/2018
Add Immunizations to Your Back to School Checklist

The start of the 2018-19 school year is just around the corner! Parents and guardians planning for the new school year need to make sure children are up-to-date on their immunizations.

Immunizations are an important part of a child’s health, and Missouri law requires children enrolled in kindergarten through 12th grade to be immunized against certain preventable diseases. This helps protect everyone: children, teachers, staff, and the community as a whole.

Children attending kindergarten through 12th grade are required to have the following immunizations or boosters:

  • DTaP – Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis; or DT – Diphtheria and tetanus
  • Tdap – Pertussis (8th thru12th grade)
  • IPV – Polio
  • Hepatitis B
  • MMR – Measles, mumps, rubella
  • Varicella – Chickenpox
  • Meningococcal (8th grade and 12th grade)

Once your child has received these immunizations, an updated record should be sent to the school nurse. An updated shot record is required by the State in order for children to attend school.

Getting your child immunized can be easy and inexpensive. For families with health insurance, all vaccines are usually covered. Children may be eligible to receive free vaccines through the Vaccines for Children program before their 19th birthday. Contact the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services or your local public health agency to find out if your child is eligible. For more information about immunizations, visit www.health.mo.gov/immunizations.


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