TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — Back to school time is just around the corner, and that means it is time for those dreaded immunizations.
This time of year can be hectic for families. That is why the Vigo County School Cooperation and the State of Indiana allow a grace period for vaccinations.
First of all we want you, if at all possible, before you step foot in school to get your vaccinations. It’s just good practice. It keeps all of our children safe including your own. However, we want to balance removing a child from the classroom with health.”
Bill Riley, VCSC Director of Communications
Unvaccinated students will be not be removed from class unless they miss the final deadline.
This year, our deadlines for vaccinations are
Oct. 31 for high schoolers
,
Nov. 22 for middle schoolers
and
Dec. 20 for elementary schools
. Between the start of school and those deadlines, there will be plenty of letters, phone calls, contact with parents saying if you can’t comply with the vaccinations by this date, we will have to remove your child from the school building.”
Bill Riley, VCSC Director of Communications
Vaccinations aren’t just a requirement for grades K-12. Those continuing their education must also show proof of immunizations or face consequences.
They are required to have 2 MMRs, also a meningitis vaccine and new for us since last year is a requirement for a Meningitis B vaccine, which we are still catching students up on that particular vaccine. “
Lynn Kellet, ISU nurse practitioner
Kellet said if students don’t meet the requirements, a hold will be placed on their student account until the vaccinations are up date, restricting them from signing up for upcoming classes.
ISU students still needing vaccinations can do so through the Student Health Center.
An
immunization waiver
is also available for those who have a medical or religious reason.
As for Vigo County residents, the health department offers all the state required vaccinations for K-12, as well as back to school physicals.
If you have insurance, there is no co-pay. If you don’t have insurance, it’s a $10 flat fee for all of you vaccines. Like I said, we want everybody to get vaccinated so we try to make it really easy and affordable for everyone.”
Roni Elder, Vigo County Health Department Health Educator
