Free Back-To-School Vaccines Available For Mendham, Chester Children

MENDHAM-CHESTER, NJ — Families in Mendham and Chester can take advantage of free back-to-school vaccinations and health check-ups for uninsured children ahead of the new school year.

The clinics are available to children from birth through age 18 who do not have health insurance, including eligible families in Mendham and Chester boroughs.

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Three clinic dates are scheduled for August and September. Clinics will be held on Aug. 27 and Sept. 10 in Bridgewater, followed by a Sept. 14 clinic in Bernardsville.

In addition to vaccinations, the clinics offer general health check-ups for children through age 18, though sports physicals are not included.

Medical staff will also provide well-child visits for newborns, toddlers and preschoolers, as well as growth and development assessments. Parents and guardians can receive health education during the visits.

A parent or guardian must be present for all appointments.

The free services are also available to eligible uninsured children from Bernards Township, Bernardsville, Long Hill Township and Peapack-Gladstone.

The clinics are conducted in conjunction with the Bernards Township Health Department and local boards of health, in cooperation with the Community Visiting Nurse Association.

Appointments are required. Families can schedule an appointment by calling Community VNA at 908-725-9355, ext. 0.

As a reminder, New Jersey's childhood vaccine requirements have not changed, despite an Aug. 10 federal executive order that requires fewer shots. The Garden State's vaccination regulations are not affected by the federal order, New Jersey health officials say.

"Protecting children from preventable disease is one of the most fundamental responsibilities we hold, and it is one we take seriously," said Dr. Raynard E. Washington, New Jersey Health Commissioner. "Families deserve clear, science-based guidance, not confusion. The evidence behind childhood vaccines is clear; it has not changed, and New Jersey will continue to make sure every family can access the vaccines that keep their children safe."