“Vaccines are among the most successful and cost-effective public health tools available for preventing disease and death,” State Health Director Dr. Jeff Engel said in a press release.

The N.C. Division of Public Health is reminding parents to vaccinate their teens and pre-teens as well as their infants and young children.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools requires a dose of Tdap vaccine for all students entering sixth grade to protect against pertussis (whooping cough), the instances of which have increased among the state’s pre-teen students. Children who have had a tetanus shot within the past five years may be exempt from the requirement.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also recommends that older children receive vaccinations against meningitis, Human Papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis A and influenza (flu), as well as booster shot of Varicella (chicken pox) vaccine.

“Parents should start thinking about immunizations now, so students will be protected when they start the new school year,” Dr. Engel said.

Students entering kindergarten and sixth grade must provide proof of immunizations on the first day of school, Aug. 25. Kindergarten students also need to show proof of a current health assessment or physical exam. Failure to provide required documents may lead to exclusion from school.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools reports that more than 23,000 CMS students need back to school shots and encourages parents to plan ahead and make an appointment now with their child’s doctor for immunizations.

The Mecklenburg County Health Department also provides immunizations. Due to changes in the Vaccine for Children (VCF) funding, a fee may apply.  Be sure to bring your student’s vaccination record and insurance information. The Mecklenburg County Health Department hours are listed below.

Northwest Campus, 2845 Beatties Ford Rd
Monday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tuesday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Wednesday: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Thursday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Friday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Southeast Campus, 249 Billingsley Rd
Monday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tuesday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Wednesday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Thursday: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Friday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

To make an appointment, call the appointment line at 704-336-6500.

Immunization requirements and information are listed on the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools website, www.cms.k12.nc.us, or www.immunizenc.org.

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