While parents are getting school supplies and clothes ready for the new school year, it's also a good time to make sure the kids are up to date on their vaccines.

August is Back-to-school time and National Immunization Awareness Month. A great time to make sure your household is up to date, so everyone can stay healthy. You can get all the information about South Dakota's required Immunizations for school here.

When children are not vaccinated they are at increased risk for diseases and can also spread diseases to others in their classrooms and community. Babies who are too young to be fully vaccinated, and people with weakened immune systems due to cancer or other health conditions are especially susceptible.

There are important vaccinations for adolescent as well as young children, including protection against serious and potentially life-threatening diseases like meningitis, septicemia and cancers caused by HPV.

“Getting children all of the vaccines recommended by CDC’s immunization schedule is one of the most important things parents can do to ensure a healthy future for their child,” said Barbara Philips, nurse educator for the Department of Health immunization program. “If you haven’t done so already, now is the time to check with your doctor to find out what vaccines your child needs.”

Preteens and teens need Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) vaccine, meningococcal vaccine, and HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine when they are 11 to 12. In addition, yearly flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months or older. Kids and parents included.


 

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