As a new school year gets closer, parents are busy buying school supplies, picking out backpacks, and getting ready for the first day of class. But one of the most important things on your checklist should be making sure your child is up to date on their shots (vaccines).
Vaccines are one of the safest and most effective ways to protect children from dangerous sicknesses. They do not just keep your child healthy. They also protect classmates, teachers, grandparents, and babies who can get sick easily.
Protection Starts at Birth
A child’s vaccine schedule actually begins the day they are born. Because babies have developing immune systems, it is easier for them to get very sick. Doctors use a carefully planned schedule to give babies protection when they need it most.
From birth through their first 15 months, babies get shots to protect against diseases like:
- Common Childhood Illnesses: Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Chickenpox, and Whooping Cough (Pertussis).
- Serious Infections: Tetanus, Polio, Hepatitis A and B, Diphtheria, and Hib.
- Respiratory Protection: Flu, COVID-19, Pneumococcal disease, and RSV.
Giving each shot at the right age provides the best protection. Delaying shots can leave babies unprotected when these sicknesses are the most dangerous.
Shots for Growing Kids and Teens
Kids still need vaccines as they grow up. Older children need booster shots to keep their protection strong, plus new vaccines as they start school, play sports, travel, or become teenagers.
School-age kids and teens may need:
- Boosters: Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Whooping Cough), Polio, and Chickenpox boosters.
- Adolescent Vaccines: HPV and Meningococcal vaccines.
- Yearly Protection: Annual Flu and COVID-19 shots.
Following the doctor's schedule keeps your child safe at every age.
Back-to-School Is the Best Time to Book
Most schools require proof of certain shots before students can start class. Booking an appointment before the school year begins helps you:
- Meet all school requirements on time.
- Avoid the stressful, last-minute rush.
- Give your child time to get over any mild arm soreness before classes start.
- Start the year healthy, safe, and ready to learn.
Plus, these checkups are a great time for your doctor to check your child's growth, vision, hearing, and overall health.
Parents Need Shots Too!
Vaccines are not just for kids. Adults also need routine vaccines and boosters to stay healthy and stop the spread of germs to their loved ones.
Talk to your doctor about staying up to date on:
- A Flu and COVID-19 shot every year.
When parents stay updated, they form a shield of protection around newborns, older adults, and family members with weak immune systems.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Whether your child needs a regular checkup, a school physical, required school shots, or you need a booster yourself, now is the perfect time to book.
Call us to schedule:
- Memphis: 901-842-3160
- Jackson: 731-540-0330
