August is National Immunization Awareness Month, a time to emphasize the importance of staying up to date on recommended vaccines for people of all ages. As families prepare for a new school year, Fargo Cass Public Health (FCPH) reminds parents that children, teens and young adults are typically required to have certain immunizations before entering daycare, school, or college. “Staying on schedule with vaccinations is one of the best ways to protect your child—and others around them—from serious diseases like measles, meningitis and whooping cough,” says Cheryl Wavrin, Immunization Coordinator at FCPH.
To help families get ready for the upcoming school year, FCPH will host four Back-to-School immunization clinics throughout August. In addition, Family HealthCare (FHC) will provide walk-in immunizations during the second and third clinics, offering families added convenience and flexibility. On both Tuesday, August 12 and Tuesday, August 19, FHC will provide immunizations from their Mobile Unit, which will be located in the parking lot of FCPH. Staff from both agencies will be ready to assist families and answer questions.
Back-to-School Immunization Clinic details:
• All clinics will take place from 8:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, August 5 – appointments only
• Tuesday, August 12 – appointments and walk-ins available
• Tuesday, August 19 – appointments and walk-ins available
• Tuesday, August 26 – appointments only
• Individuals are asked to bring insurance information to the clinics
• Registration forms for walk-in immunizations through FHC are available here
• All clinics will be held at the main FCPH building, located at 1240 25th Street South, Fargo
• Appointments can be made by calling 701.241.1383
Before kindergarten, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends children be immunized against these diseases:
• Chickenpox
• Hepatitis B
• Diphtheria, Tetanus and Pertussis (DTaP)
• Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR)
• Polio
Prior to 7th grade, it is recommended children also receive vaccines to prevent bacterial meningitis and to boost their protection against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (Tdap), and before 11th grade, an added dose of meningitis vaccine.
Prior to attending an immunization clinic, parents are encouraged to contact their insurance company to verify coverage for immunizations provided by FCPH. Additional information is available at FargoCassPublicHealth.com/immunizations.
Kids and teens can also receive immunizations during regular hours by appointment in the FCPH clinic, which can be reached by calling 701.241.1383.