LDH Reminds Parents To Make Sure Kids Are Up To Date On Vaccines

The new school year is getting underway, as some kids are already back in the classroom and others will be soon. Dr. Frank Welch with the state Department of Health reminds parents to make sure their kids are up to date on their vaccinations because there is an immunization law in Louisiana.

“We want to use this week and next week to have parents contact their provider and make sure their child is up to date with vaccines so they don’t get caught in that last minute back to school rush,” Welch said.

Welch says parents can get their children vaccinated at their pediatrician’s office or family doctor or at a parish health unit. He says there are two important times during a child’s life where their shots need to be up to date.

“When they enter kindergarten or first grade and then also at sixth grade as well. So just remember not every kid needs shots,” Welch said.

Welch says vaccinating children protects them and others from getting dangerous and potentially life threatening diseases, like measles, flu, mumps, whooping cough and pneumonia. He says despite contrary reports, vaccines are safe and help keep others safe.

“It isn’t just about the protection of your child. It’s also about the protection of your family and all the other children in school,” Welch said.