Health Officials Remind Families To Get Kids Vaccinated Before School

SAN DIEGO, CA — As children soon go back to school across San Diego County, health officials reminded families Thursday to put vaccines on their back-to-school list.

California requires some vaccines for children to attend school from TK through 12th grade, including DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis/whooping cough), Hepatitis B, MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine), chickenpox and polio, among others.

"This exciting time for families is a good opportunity to get the kids up to date on their vaccines," said Dr. Kelly Motadel, county child health officer. "Parents are encouraged to schedule well-child checkups with a healthcare provider to make sure their children are on track with milestones and ready for a healthy and fun school year."

The county also announced that the first week of August is California HPV Vaccine Week.

While the HPV vaccine is not required for schools, health officials said it is an important vaccination for boys and girls ages 9 to 13 because it helps prevent six types of cancers in adulthood.

"The HPV vaccine is safe, effective and will protect your kids later in their lives," Motadel said. "I really encourage parents and caregivers to ask their child's doctor about getting them the HPV vaccine. Doing it now can prevent 90% of future cancers caused by HPV."

For more information about school vaccines and where to get them, visit the county website or call 211.