Health Screenings and Immunizations > Immunizations
Many children and adolescents missed obtaining routine vaccinations while staying at home during the COVID-19 outbreak. Routine vaccinations help protect children from 16 serious diseases.
The role of the school nurse is to support students, families, and school leaders with educating parents, reviewing immunization records, and providing families with information to support their child with becoming compliant with receiving immunizations before returning to school.
Key considerations:
- CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend every child continues to receive routine vaccinations during the COVID-19 outbreak.
- Well-child visits and vaccinations are essential services and help make sure children are protected against vaccine preventable diseases.
- The Vaccines for Children (VFC) program provides eligible children vaccines at no cost.
- Parents should contact their child’s medical provider about receiving routine vaccines. Many medical offices are taking extra steps to make sure that well visits can happen safely during the COVID-19 outbreak.
CDC Resources
Routine Vaccination During the COVID-19 Outbreak
Diseases & the Vaccines that Prevent Them
Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Routine Pediatric Vaccine Ordering and Administration — United States, 2020
2021 Recommended Vaccinations for Infants and Children (birth through 6 years) Parent-Friendly Version
2021 Recommended Vaccinations for Children (7-18 Years Old) Parent-Friendly Version
Vaccines for Children Program Detailed Questions and Answers for Parents
Other Resources
AAP urges vaccination as rates drop due to COVID-19 | American Academy of Pediatrics
COVID-19 Vaccination Training Module | Council of Public Health Nursing Organizations
Different Types of Vaccines | American College of Chest Physicians
Resources Shared by School Nurses
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