Vaccinations play a vital role in keeping our children healthy and protecting them against preventable diseases. Here in Mecklenburg County, certain vaccinations are required for children attending schools and childcare facilities. We’ll talk about the vaccinations your child needs to meet these requirements and ensure their well-being. At Carolina Express Clinic, we’re here to help you understand these requirements and make sure your child is up-to-date before they get to school. This is of particular importance to families transferring into North Carolina for the first time.
Vaccination Requirements for Children in Mecklenburg County
The following vaccinations are required for children attending schools and childcare facilities in Mecklenburg County. If you have any doubts you can also reference the Mecklenburg County website.
Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP)
The DTaP vaccine protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (whooping cough). Children should receive a series of five doses, with the first dose given at two months of age and the last dose given before entering kindergarten.
Polio (IPV)
The inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV) protects against polio. Children should receive a series of four doses, with the first dose given at two months of age and the last dose given before entering kindergarten.
Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. Children should receive two doses, with the first dose given at 12-15 months of age and the second dose given before entering kindergarten.
Haemophilus Influenzae Type B (Hib)
The Hib vaccine protects against Haemophilus influenzae type b, a cause of bacterial meningitis and other serious infections. Children should receive a series of doses according to the vaccine product used, with the first dose given at two months of age and the last dose given by 15 months of age.
Hepatitis B (HepB)
The HepB vaccine protects against hepatitis B, a viral infection that can cause liver disease. Children should receive a series of three doses, with the first dose given at birth and the last dose given by 18 months of age.
Varicella (Chickenpox)
The varicella vaccine protects against chickenpox. Children should receive two doses, with the first dose given at 12-15 months of age and the second dose given before entering kindergarten.
Pneumococcal Conjugate (PCV13)
The PCV13 vaccine protects against 13 types of pneumococcal bacteria, which can cause pneumonia, meningitis, and other serious infections. Children should receive a series of four doses, with the first dose given at two months of age and the last dose given by 15 months of age.
Additional Vaccination Requirements for Seventh-Grade Entry
In addition to the above vaccinations, children entering the seventh grade in Mecklenburg County are also required to receive:
Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis Booster (Tdap)
The Tdap vaccine is a booster shot that protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. One dose is required for students entering the seventh grade.
Meningococcal Conjugate (MCV4)
The MCV4 vaccine protects against certain types of bacterial meningitis. One dose is required for students entering the seventh grade.
Ensuring Your Child Is Up-to-Date on Vaccinations
It’s important to keep track of your child’s immunization records to ensure they are up-to-date on all required vaccinations. If you’re unsure about your child’s vaccination status or need assistance obtaining the necessary immunizations, Carolina Express Clinic is here to help. Our casual, caring team of experts can guide you through the vaccination process, answer any questions you may have, and provide the necessary vaccinations for your child. Ensuring your child receives all required vaccinations is crucial for their health and the well-being of their classmates and the community. By staying up-to-date on immunizations, you can protect your child from preventable diseases and meet the vaccination requirements for schools and childcare facilities in Mecklenburg County. If you need assistance or have any questions about vaccinations, don’t hesitate to reach out to Carolina Express Clinic for guidance and support.
