Why Back-to-School Immunizations Matter

Act now to help your child stay current on immunizations.

As families anticipate another new school year, student registration and shopping for required supplies often top the to-do list. In addition, parents and guardians in Illinois need to ensure their student is up to date with the minimum required vaccines.

Protect Your Child

Vaccines work by helping the body's immune system recognize and fight certain diseases before they can cause serious illness. Children who are vaccinated are less likely to become sick or suffer serious health consequences from vaccine-preventable illnesses. This not only reduces the risk of missed school days but also provides your child with enhanced immunity, all day, every day.

Protect Others

Not every child can receive every vaccine. Some children have medical conditions, weakened immune systems, or are receiving treatments that make certain vaccines unsuitable for them. Unfortunately, these individuals are often more susceptible to illness during this time, including illnesses from vaccine-preventable diseases.

However, when a majority of students within a school system are vaccinated, diseases have fewer opportunities to spread. This community protection helps reduce the risk of vulnerable children being exposed to preventable illnesses at school.

Protect Families and Communities

The benefits of immunization extend beyond the classroom. Vaccines also help protect families and the broader community from vaccine-preventable illnesses. This includes infants who are too young to receive certain vaccines, older adults, and people with health conditions that reduce their immunity.

In fact, throughout history, adequate vaccination rates have helped reduce outbreaks of illnesses across the United States.

Prepare Before School Starts

Back-to-school season is an excellent time to review your student's immunization record. The Moultrie County Health Department (MCHD) suggests the following steps to ensure a smooth and stress-free transition into the new school year:

1. Check your student’s immunization record. This is especially important if your student is entering grades K, 6, or 12, when updates are typically required.
2. If you do not have your student’s immunization record or if you are unsure of whether immunizations are needed, contact your healthcare provider, your school nurse, or the MCHD. Each of these entities can assist you with your immunization records and any questions you may have.
3. If your child needs routine vaccinations, contact your healthcare provider or the MCHD and schedule an appointment. By completing this step as early as possible, you are more likely to get an appointment that fits your busy schedule.

Let’s Get Going

The Moultrie County Health Department is currently providing back-to-school immunizations. For more information about immunizations or to schedule an appointment with the MCHD, contact our office at (217) 728-4114.

The MCHD wishes all students and their families a healthy and successful school year!