Back to school is an important time for parents and families to prioritize their children’s health.  Vaccines are one of the most effective tools we have to keep kids healthy in school. Kewaunee County Health Department encourages families to think ahead about the vaccinations their children may need to return to school.  According to Wisconsin School Law, every child entering kindergarten will require updated vaccines, as well as every child entering the 7th grade.  Kindergarteners require a DTaP, polio, and varicella vaccination.  7th graders require an updated Tdap.

Wisconsin’s most recent vaccination rates in childcare and schools show a decline as parents and providers work to get caught up on vaccinations that were put on hold during the pandemic. The vaccine decline was greatest among children entering kindergarten.

Current immunization rates for schools in 2022-2023 show:

• 88.7% of students met the minimum immunization requirements – a 3.2% decrease from the previous year.
• 3.3% of students were behind schedule on their vaccinations – a 0.4% increase from the previous year

Vaccines are recommended for children to provide protection. “Parents who choose to keep their children up to date on vaccinations are not only protecting their own child’s health but are making a choice that protects the people who live and work in their communities,” said Health Officer Cindy Kinnard, RN. “Vaccines are safe and effective and are one the strongest tools we have to prevent getting sick from diseases. We encourage all parents to work with their child’s health care provider or our agency to ensure their child is up to date on immunizations.”

The Vaccines for Children program provides no or low-cost vaccines for those who are eligible. Any parent or guardian who has questions about their child’s vaccination record can contact our health department for assistance. You can track and print your student’s vaccine record through the Wisconsin Immunization Registry: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/immunization/wir.htm Vaccines are available each week by appointment. Make sure your child is up-to-date on vaccines that protect them from many serious but preventable diseases.