Summer break is a great time for families to schedule well-child visits and make sure children are up to date on school-required vaccinations before classes begin this fall.

North Carolina requires updated immunizations for students entering kindergarten, seventh grade, and twelfth grade. Children entering public school for the first time must also complete a health assessment with their healthcare provider.

Catawba County Schools Health Supervisor Marianne Vogel says keeping children healthy and present in the classroom starts before the first day of school. She says vaccinations help protect children from serious diseases and reduce absences caused by preventable illnesses that can impact learning and force parents to miss work.

Well-child visits also provide important preventive care, including developmental screenings, immunizations, and early health interventions. School nurses throughout the county are available to help families connect with healthcare providers and vaccine resources. Public Health also offers routine childhood vaccinations, including those required for school enrollment.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Catawba County Public Health’s Immunizations Clinic at 828-695-5881.