San Mateo County to parents: Get children vaccinated before school

Palo Alto Daily News - 8/3/2017

Aug. 03--San Mateo County Health officials have issued a reminder to parents to make sure that their children's vaccines are current before the first day of school or child care.

California law requires that students receive certain vaccines or they won't be permitted to attend school or child care, unless they have a valid exemption, said Diana Rohini LaVigne, public information officer for the San Mateo County Health System.

"This can be challenging for busy parents who are preparing their kids to enter kindergarten or child care for the first time," said LaVigne. "Parents should also be aware that vaccinations are also required for students entering seventh grade."

Some children are unable to be vaccinated because of health reasons, said LaVigne, and they rely on the collective immunity of those around them.

LaVigne cited the case of Rhett Krawitt, now 8 years old, who drew national attention during a measles outbreak December 2014 through spring 2015 that originated at Disneyland. Rhett could not be vaccinated against measles because of his leukemia treatment.

"Rhett bravely advocated for better vaccination coverage," said LaVigne, "and his public efforts contributed to the passage of California Senate Bill 277, which removed personal belief exemptions from required childhood vaccinations."

Dr. Scott Morrow, San Mateo County health officer, said in a statement, "Making vaccinations part of your preparation to return back to school is an important step for the new school year. Often, parents are finding fall vaccination appointments filled up so we urge parents to get an early jump on this flu season."

The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends an annual flu vaccination for everyone 6 months of age or older. Parents should make an appointment for vaccines at their child's regular doctor's office or clinic. Children without health insurance, with Medi-Cal, or of American Indian or Alaskan Native descent may be eligible for vaccines at low or no cost through the Vaccines for Children Program. Find doctors or a clinic that participates in the VFC Program by visiting eziz.org/vfc/provider-locations. For more information on school and child care vaccination requirements and rates, visit www.shotsforschool.org.

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