Your 411 on back to school vaccines in Texas
HOUSTON (KTRK) -- As school swings back into session, remember your child might need some vaccines before they can return to the classroom.
Texas requires immunizations against a host of life-threatening diseases including polio, measles, and meningococcal. If students do not get the treatment, they could be barred from attendance. For a full list of state required immunizations, visit Texas Department of State Health Services' website.
Texas does allow some exemptions to the immunization requirements including for medical reasons or religious beliefs. Both need proper documentation.
Health experts, like pediatric nurse practitioner Margie Ugalde with Texas Children's Hospital, stressed the importance of immunizations. She said they're necessary to protect the welfare of all school children.
"These diseases are deadly and if we do not vaccinate children against these diseases we'll have a resurgence," said Ugalde. "Vaccines are safe and very important. We want to make sure they're protected against potentially life threatening diseases."
The Children's Museum of Houston along with the Texas Children's Mobile Clinics plan to offer free immunizations Thursday August 21st and Thursday 27th. The event takes places inside the Children's Museum from 5:00pm until 7:00pm at 1500 Binz in Houston. It is open to the first 100 children.
"It's very important if you want to take advantage of the free immunizations that we're offering, that you bring your shot records and a parent or guardian," said Erika Yanez with the Children's Museum. "Remember that before you come to the museum."
For more information, visit the museum's website.
Texas Children's Mobile Clinics also plan to do more outreach. You can see a copy of their schedule by visiting their website.
Check with your individual school district for more information and about any community resources. Some including Houston's Independent School District offer mobile clinics. For a full list of HISD's event, visit their website.
