The Westchester County Department of Health is now booking appointments for its free back-to-school vaccine clinics to assure children have the vaccines they need for school.
Health Commissioner Sherlita Amler, MD, said: “Parents should schedule vaccine visits with their healthcare provider as soon as possible to be sure their children have the vaccines they need to stay in school. For those without insurance, or who have ChildHealth Plus or Medicaid, the County Health Department can help.”
Besides school vaccines, the County also offers influenza and COVID-19 vaccines for children ages six months and older. Children must have their first dose of all required vaccinations within 14 days from the first day of school. Parents and guardians of children must show they have made appointments for all required follow-up doses within 30 days of the start of school. New York State eliminated religious exemptions for vaccinations as of the 2019 school year.
Families with no insurance, ChildHealth Plus or Medicaid, should call the County Health Department to schedule an appointment for vaccines at no charge. Call (914) 995-5800 to find out if you qualify, and to make an appointment.
The six back-to-school clinics, located at the Health Department at 134 Court Street, White Plains are as follows:
- Friday, Aug. 26, Sept. 9, 16, 23 and 30, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Saturday, Sept. 10, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Ask your healthcare provider which vaccines your children need. All seventh and twelfth graders must get the meningococcal vaccine, and all students must be vaccinated against whooping cough, measles and mumps.
Health Navigators available through the Health Department can help families and individuals sign up for the health insurance they need. Those without a regular doctor can learn where to go for ongoing primary care. For more information, call (914) 995-6350.