Summer just started, but it’ll feel like the blink of an eye before school is back in session. If your child needs a physical or immunizations for the upcoming school year, be sure to schedule an appointment soon before the back-to-school rush hits and time runs out.
“Immunizations help students keep themselves and others healthy and in school,” said Dr. Elizabeth Wolf, pediatrician. “Summer appointments tend to fill up quickly. Be sure to schedule your appointment for immunizations, health physicals and school action plans today so your student doesn’t miss out on valuable learning time when the school year begins.”
To attend public or private school in Virginia, students need to meet minimum immunization requirements or have a notarized certificate of religious exemption.
Here’s what’s required at specific grade levels:
Kindergarten
Most children will already have all of these vaccines as part of the standard vaccine schedule but check with their pediatrician if you’re unsure.
7th grade
12th grade
We recommend that kids and teens remain up to date on their COVID vaccines and get this year’s flu shot when it becomes available too.
In addition to proof of immunization, kids need a physical exam within one year prior to starting kindergarten or their first time enrolling in elementary school. Students participating in school sports also need to have a sports physical and the associated form completed by a health care provider.
If your child has asthma, diabetes or another condition that requires medication or care at school, summer is also the time to talk with their doctor about a school action plan for the coming year. Action plans keep kids safe by providing nurses and other school personnel with written information about their medical condition, instructions on what to do if specific symptoms occur at school and permission from a physician and parent/guardian to provide this treatment.
Best wishes for a fun rest of the summer – and a safe and healthy school year ahead!
){kind=link}
){kind=link}
){kind=link}