It’s back to school time again, and that means it’s time to make sure your child has had all the vaccine requirements they need to start the year. Texas requires certain back to school immunizations for students grades K-12. Colleges and universities also have special vaccine requirements. Check with your pharmacist or school nurse to find out exactly what is required.

THE MOST COMMON BACK-TO-SCHOOL VACCINES

Meningitis

 

- Students grade 7-12 must have received one dose Meningitis vaccination on/after their 11th birthday.

 

- Students entering an institute of higher education must have received one dose of Meningitis vaccine during the five-year period prior to enrolling. They must get the vaccine at least 10 days before the semester begins.

 

Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis

 

- For 7th grade, one Tetanus shot, Diphtheria vaccine, or Pertussis vaccine is required if at least 5 years have passed since the last dose.

 

- For 8th-12th, one Tetanus shot, Diphtheria vaccine, or Pertussis vaccine is required if at least 10 years have passed since the last dose.

 

Child receiving back to school vaccines

WHERE TO GET BACK-TO-SCHOOL VACCINES?

Insurance may cover some or all of the cost of these back to school vaccines at the pharmacy. A prescription for the vaccine is required for children under 14 years old.

 

Children with Medicaid or without insurance may be eligible to receive vaccines for the low price of $14.85 each, via the Texas Vaccines for Children Program.Dripping Springs Pharmacy offers these reduced-cost vaccines.

 

All three of Martin’s Wellness Pharmacies offer back to school vaccines during normal business hours. Our immunization-certified pharmacists can help determine which vaccines are needed, and request prescriptions from the pediatrician if appropriate. Call us or stop by anytime to discuss your child’s vaccination needs!

 

Best in Health!

Jillian Blackwell, Pharm. D