HEALTH eNEWS - The Importance of Immunizations

Immunizations play a vital role in helping our community in the fight against disease outbreaks and in maintaining health. While few of us look forward to these injections, the benefits of diminishing vaccine-preventable diseases in individuals, and the community as a whole, far outweigh the mild and temporary discomfort.

Because of these protective benefits, the State of Missouri requires up-to-date immunizations for school attendance. A complete list of these required vaccinations is available through the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services website, and parents may schedule these injections through St. Charles County’s Division of Public Health or through their preferred medical provider. Students who have recently moved into St. Charles County should check with their medical provider or contact the Division of Public Health to find out if their shots are current.

The Division of Public Health’s Immunization Clinic provides a number of free or affordably priced vaccinations for St. Charles County’s children and adults through a partnership with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. The clinic provides free vaccinations to those participating in the Vaccines for Children program (eligible participants include children who:  have no health insurance; are covered by Medicaid; are a Native American or Alaskan Native; or have health insurance that does not cover immunizations). The Children’s Immunization Program and the Adult Immunization Program plans offer near-cost immunizations to those ineligible for the Vaccines for Children program. To discover current pricing and to learn which vaccines are available, please visit the Immunization Clinic website.

The Division of Public Health offers vaccinations on an appointment basis through the Immunization Clinic at 1650 Boone’s Lick Road in St. Charles every weekday except Thursday. Hours are 8:30 to 11 a.m., and 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. — with extended hours until 5:30 p.m. on Tuesdays. An adult parent or guardian must accompany children under 18 and bring along the child’s shot record to avoid unnecessary vaccinations. For questions, or to schedule an appointment, please call (636) 949-1857.