Stay Healthy for School! Tennessee Department of Health Provides Essential Immunizations for Students and Seasonal Illnesses

The Tennessee Department of Health (TDH) is urging families to prioritize vaccinations as summer comes to an end. This is a perfect opportunity for parents to ensure their children are fully immunized before they return to school in August.

Here’s what you need to know:

For Kindergarteners and New Enrollments
First-time students in Tennessee must present a Tennessee Immunization Certificate before classes start. This document needs to be signed by a qualified healthcare provider or verified through the state’s Immunization Information System.

For Seventh Graders
All students moving into seventh grade must provide a certification showing they’ve received the Tdap booster shot, which protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis.

For College-Bound Students
Teens heading to state-run colleges must check specific vaccination requirements. Generally, being fully vaccinated and having a meningitis booster after age 16 will meet most college requirements.

Routine Immunizations for Everyone
In addition to these school requirements, local health departments offer vaccines for all ages. This includes shots for hepatitis A and B, HPV, and meningococcal disease. Staying up-to-date with these vaccines helps keep families and communities healthy.

Recent statistics show that vaccination rates play a crucial role in public health. According to the CDC, timely vaccinations can prevent over 20 million diseases in children under five each year. Enhanced immunity helps reduce the spread of diseases in schools and communities.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, reach out to your local health department. For example, the Coffee County Health Department is located at 615 Wilson Ave, Tullahoma, TN 37388.

Vaccinations are a vital part of ensuring a healthy future for our children and community!

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