RALEIGH, N.C. (WHKY) — North Carolina health officials say they do not anticipate changing the state’s clinical guidance on childhood immunizations following the August 10 federal executive order on childhood vaccines.

State Health Director and NCDHHS Chief Medical Officer Dr. Larry Greenblatt said the evidence supporting current vaccine recommendations has not changed.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services says vaccinations remain important for protecting children, families and communities from preventable infectious diseases.

The department says vaccines remain widely available through private medical offices, community health centers, local health departments and pharmacies.

Children from birth through age 18 who meet eligibility requirements may receive vaccines at no cost through the Vaccines for Children program at participating provider locations.

NCDHHS is encouraging parents and caregivers to speak with pediatricians or other health-care providers about the vaccines recommended and available for their children.

The department also offers a bilingual Childhood Vaccines Toolkit for families and health-care providers.