Back to School Shots

[annm4peace]

http://www.tcdailyplanet.net/article/2009/08/23/back-school-shots.html?print=1

By Kathlyn Stone , TC Daily Planet
August 24, 2009

With the days shortening and the nights getting cooler, it’s time to think about chickenpox, measles, mumps and rubella. Minnesota state law requires parents of all children who attend school and children in child care to show proof of up-to-date immunizations before enrollment. The law also allows parents, guardians or students over 18 to file for a medical or conscientious exemption to the school immunization requirements.

New this fall: Starting this September, two doses of chickenpox vaccine are required for all children entering kindergarten or 7th grade.
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If you have health insurance, call your health care clinic for shots. Both Hennepin and Ramsey Counties offer low-cost immunizations for uninsured school-aged children or those with insurance plans that don’t cover immunization.

The Ramsey County Immunization Clinic is at 555 Cedar Street (10th & Cedar) in Saint Paul. Hours are limited so check the schedule.

Bring immunization records with you. FFI: 651-266-1234, or email: [e-mail]

Hennepin County has three immunization clinics in Minneapolis, Bloomington and Chrystal. ($10 donation per shot) Days and hours are limited so check the schedule. FFI: 612-348-2741

Visit the Minnesota Dept. of Health website for more information about which immunizations are required and when. FFI: 651-201-5503, 800-657-3970, www.health.state.mn.us/immunize

Note regarding H1N1 (swine flu). The Dept. of Health is monitoring the H1N1 (swine flu) and is preparing for a voluntary vaccination effort that will likely involve schools. Updates will be made on the H1N1 vaccination page of the web site.