As families prepare for the new school year, the Rockland County Department of Health (RCDOH) encourages parents and caregivers to check their children’s vaccination records and make sure they are up to date on all recommended and required vaccines.
Recent measles cases in New York State, along with two unfortunate measles-related deaths in Pennsylvania, are a reminder that vaccine-preventable diseases can still spread. Thankfully, safe and effective vaccines are available to keep children, families, and the community protected.
Back-to-School Vaccination Checklist
Protect your children as they return to school by making sure their vaccines are up to date. Before school starts:
- Review your child’s vaccine records.
- Make sure your child has all required school vaccines, including measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap), polio, chickenpox (varicella), and other recommended vaccines.
- If you’re unsure of your child’s vaccine history, talk with your healthcare provider or contact the RCDOH.
- Keep vaccine records organized and in a safe place.
Vaccines are available at no cost to you through your healthcare provider or the Rockland County Department of Health, ensuring all families have access to the protection they need.
“Vaccination is one of the best ways to protect children, families, and our community, “said Dr. Mary Leahy, Rockland County Department of Health Commissioner. “As the new school year approaches, we encourage everyone to check their children’s vaccine records and make sure they are up to date. Taking these steps now prevents the spread of measles and other serious, preventable diseases.”
Although there are currently no reported cases of measles in Rockland County, staying up to date on immunizations is an important way to reduce risk and keep classrooms healthy and safe.
For more information, call the Rockland County Department of Health at 845-364-2497.
