As children are getting back into the school routine, it is important for parents to ensure their immunizations are up-to-date. Missouri laws require that children enrolled in Kindergarten through 12th grade have received the proper vaccinations to protect those around them from preventable diseases. As school has started, children may have received a letter from the school nurse stating the vaccinations are needed. It is the responsibility of the parent(s)/guardian(s) to ensure the child is vaccinated and the schools have the correct information.
Children entering kindergarten need the following to be compliant with state requirements: 1. Dtap: Minimum of four doses with the last dose on or after the fourth birthday. There must be six months between the last and previous dose. 2. Polio: Minimum of three doses with the last dose on or after the fourth birthday. There must be six months between the last and previous dose. 3. MMR: Two doses required. The first one must be after the first birthday. 4. Varicella (Chickenpox): Two doses required. The first one must be after the first birthday. 5. Hepatitis B: Minimum of 3 doses spaced out appropriately.
Elementary students in fourth grade and older are only required to have one varicella vaccination, but two doses are encouraged. If the child had the disease, there must be a written document from the parent/guardian or physician stating the month and year of the disease. This document must be in the student's file.
Students in grades eight-11 are required to have a Tdap vaccination. This vaccination may be administered anytime after the age of seven and counted as valid. Student entering 12th grade must have received either the Tdap or Td booster, although a Tdap is recommended.
Parent(s)/Guardian(s) should contact their child's physician or local health department if they have questions regarding their immunizations.
Children age 18 and younger may be eligible to get vaccines for free through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program if they have Medicaid, do not have health insurance, insurance that does not provide coverage for vaccinations, are American Indian or Alaskan Native. For more information, please contact the Moniteau County Health Center at 573-796-3412.