The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) has announced the launch of a new childhood vaccination campaign to encourage parents and guardians to schedule annual physicals and immunizations for their children as they prepare to head back to school. According to the department, there was a 55.5-percent decrease in non-influenza vaccines in children between four and 18 years old during March and April compared to the same time last year. Iowa’s State Epidemiologist and Medical Director, Dr. Caitlin Pedati, says, “Daily activities may have changed during the COVID-19 pandemic, but we should all maintain routine health care that keeps children and communities protected from vaccine-preventable diseases.” The initiative includes informational graphics and reminders about vaccinations through social media, posters, online videos, billboards and much more. The department reminds families up-to-date vaccinations are a requirement for school entry and encourages families to check with their child’s primary physician to confirm they have received the necessary vaccinations prior to the start of classes. For more information on the childhood vaccination campaign and requirements, follow the links included below.
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IDPH Website
Additional Vaccine Materials
