Schedule Back to School Immunizations Now
7/24/2023
For Immediate Release
July 24, 2023
Contact: Bree Allen Breanna.allen@co.nicollet.mn.us
Cassandra Sassenberg Cassandra.sassenberg@co.nicollet.mn.us
Schedule Back to School Immunizations Now
With the start of school just around the corner, Mankato Clinic, Mayo Clinic Health System in Mankato,
and Nicollet County Health and Human Services are encouraging parents and guardians to schedule back
to school health appointments soon, including required school immunizations.
“Most kids need a well-child visit with their provider once per year from age 3 to 21. It’s the best time to
look into current health concerns and prevent new issues so that they can start the school year in good
health,” says Jennifer Johnson, D.O., Mayo Clinic Health System in Mankato family medicine physician.
“Your provider will also ensure your children’s vaccines are up to date at the annual visit and administer
the vaccines that your children are due for. Be sure to bring a list of health questions with you to make
the most of your kids’ appointments and put your mind at ease about their well-being.”
Childhood immunization rates have decreased statewide and locally since the pandemic. Getting kids up
to date will prevent future outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases like measles, varicella (chicken
pox), and pertussis (whooping cough). Regular childhood vaccine schedules are based on a child’s age,
and a health care provider can help catch them up if a child has fallen behind.
“The easiest way to make sure your kiddos are up-to-date on their vaccinations is to call your health
care provider,” Dr. Kelly Bryan, Mankato Clinic pediatrician, says. “To get ready for school, children
entering kindergarten will need a check-up and a few vaccinations. The seventh grade check-up is also a
key visit that includes vaccinations. And remember sports physicals are required every 3 years for teen
athletes in grades 7 through 12. Call your provider today.”
Open Door Health Center will be offering free vaccinations for eligible Nicollet County children at the St.
Peter Project Community Connect event on August 15 from 1:00 to 5:00 pm at the St. Peter Community
Center. Eligible children include those who are uninsured, American Indian/Alaskan Native, on a
Minnesota Health Care Program (MA, MinnesotaCare, PMAP), or underinsured. For more details, visit
the Nicollet County’s Project Community Connect Website:
https://www.co.nicollet.mn.us/1904/Nicollet-County-Project-Community-Connec