Back-to-School Immunizations
With the start of the new school year, this is an excellent time to make sure children and adults are up to date on their immunizations. Springfield Public Schools have provided a full list state-required of immunizations by grade. The list can be found here. Springfield Public Schools will also be hosting free immunization events at local schools and the Westside Public Health Center. A full list of these events can be found here.
It is also important to remember that the CDC recommends all adults receive a new tetanus shot every 10 years, and individuals over the age of 65 should make sure to get their one-time pneumonia shot. Also, don't forget that flu season is just around the corner, and seasonal flu shots are recommended for everyone over the age of 6 months.
Here are some helpful resources for finding information on vaccines and immunizations:
The CDC provides full immunization schedules for children, teens and adults.
The CDC's Vaccines and Immunizations website has a good deal of information and current news about commonly used vaccines.
MedlinePlus provides a good overview of how vaccines work and more in-depth information on specific immunizations.
The FDA has a Vaccines, Blood and Biologics website that gives information on vaccine ingredients, adverse effects reporting and other helpful information.
The Library has several books that may be of interest as well:
The Everything Parent's Guide to Vaccines: Balanced Professional Advice to Help You Make the Best Decision for Your Children by Dr. Leslie Young
The Vaccine Answer Book: 200 Essential Answers to Help you Make the Right Decisions for your Child by Dr. Jamie Loeher
Vaccines and Your Child: Separating Fact From Fiction by Dr. Paul Offit and Charlotte Moser
Make an Informed Vaccine Decision for the Health of Your Child: a Parent's Guide to Childhood Shots by Dr. Mayer Eisenstein
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