Back-To-School Immunizations In CT: Here's What You Should Know

CONNECTICUT — In the midst of all the attention over who and who has not received the coronavirus vaccine, the state Department of Public Health has issued a reminder to parents to make sure all their child's Old School immunizations are up-to-date.

The pandemic caused many children to fall behind on their pediatric and adolescent vaccinations, increasing the potential for outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases, according to a statement released by DPH Tuesday.

During the early months of the pandemic, visits to the doctor for vaccines dropped dramatically. Although they have since rebounded, many children and teens are behind on recommended vaccines, with some children even lacking vaccines required for school entry in the fall, according to the agency.

The problem is not just in the United States. The World Health Organization estimates that 23 million children worldwide missed out on basic vaccines in 2020 due to the pandemic, increasing fears of global outbreaks of polio and measles.

"If parents have any questions or concerns about vaccinating their children, they should discuss them with their child's primary care provider. We want to make sure every child attending school in Connecticut is protected from vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles," said Kathy Kudish, immunization program manager and deputy state public health veterinarian at DPH.

Two Birds, One Stone

Adolescents 12 years and older are now eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine and can receive their adolescent vaccinations (HPV, Tdap, and Meningococcal) at the same visit.

DPH is aiming to achieve herd immunity in schools, achieved when the proportion of a population that is immune to a disease is greater than the percentage of the population capable of contracting it. Schools that achieve herd immunity reduce the risk of outbreaks.

High vaccination rates at schools are especially important for medically fragile children. Some children have conditions that affect their immunity, such as illnesses that require chemotherapy. These children cannot be safely vaccinated, and, at the same time, they are less able to fight off illness when they are infected. They depend on herd immunity for their health and their lives.

"Vaccines are of the one greatest public health tools we have at keeping people healthy," said Dr. Kudish. "All children should be able to attend school in an environment free of vaccine-preventable diseases."

Parents with questions about the state's vaccine program are urged to call 860-509-7929 or email dph.immunizations@ct.gov. More information is available online at the state website.

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