Back to school means vaccine time | Guest column

Submitted by the Orcas Island Health Care District

Get a jump start on all things back-to-school. Schedule an appointment now to review the vaccines your child may need for this school year.

The Orcas Island Health Care District encourages you to call either the Orcas Family Health Center (360-376-7778) or UW Medicine Orcas Island Clinic (360-376-2561) to set up an appointment.

Over the last few years, Washington State has seen outbreaks of Measles, Mumps, Pertussis (Whooping Cough), and Chicken Pox. Immunizations can help reduce and even stop the spread of these diseases. For more information on outbreaks, immunizations, and other topics, visit the Washington State Department of Health website.

Both medical clinics on Orcas participate in the Washington State Childhood Vaccine Program, which provides publicly purchased vaccines for all children under 19 years of age. The program supplies all the vaccines recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, and the vaccines are provided at no cost to all children seen at the clinics.

The Washington State Childhood Vaccine program eliminates or reduces cost barriers to receiving childhood vaccinations. You can read more at https://www.doh.wa.gov/ForPublicHealthandHealthcareProviders/PublicHealthSystemResourcesandServices/Immunization/ChildhoodVaccineProgram.

It’s also important that as a parent you are up to date on your vaccinations. OFHC and UW Medicine Orcas Island Clinic provide an array of vaccines for adults. Be sure to schedule a visit with your provider to learn more.