Vaccinations play a crucial role in the overall health and wellness of kids and teens. Did you know that in North Carolina, students entering Kindergarten, seventh, or 12th grade are required to have certain vaccinations to protect their health and that of others?
Ensure your kids are up to date on their vaccines. The first day of school for Buncombe County and Asheville City Schools students is Aug. 26. Parents and guardians have 30 days from the first day of school to turn in immunization records for kindergarteners, seventh graders, and 12th graders, and for students new to North Carolina schools.
Vaccines protect against illnesses such as meningitis, measles, a disease that had an increase in cases in Buncombe and neighboring counties this past spring. It is important to take precautions by assessing your kids’ risks and getting them vaccinated.
When kids and teens stay healthy, they can focus on growing, learning, and doing the things they love to do. Child and adolescent immunizations set young people up for long-term health and well-being.
“As a family doctor, a public health professional, and a mom, I urge parents and guardians to talk with their children’s healthcare provider and make sure their children are up to date on recommended and required vaccines,” says Jennifer Mullendore, MD, MSPH, Medical Director for Buncombe County Health and Human Services. “Vaccination is one of the most effective ways for parents and guardians to protect their children from harm and help them thrive.”
Buncombe County Health and Human Services officials encourage parents and guardians to talk with their healthcare providers to catch up on recommended and required vaccinations. Most vaccines are available at doctor’s offices, local pharmacies, health centers, health departments, and travel clinics.
Opportunities for getting caught up on vaccines:
- Well visits
- Sports physicals
- School health assessments
- Other health care visits
Buncombe County’s Immunization Clinic offers vaccinations at no cost for many:
Where: 40 Coxe Avenue, Downtown Asheville
Walk-In: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday between 8-11:30 a.m. and Tuesday and Thursday between 1-4:30 p.m.
To make an appointment: Call (828) 250-5096
Cost: Vaccines for children are available at no cost through the state’s Immunization Program. Eligible children, aged 18 or younger, can receive vaccines regardless of their insurance status. If a child has health insurance, the insurance is billed. If the insurance does not pay for vaccines, they can receive free vaccinations.
Important information and resources: