Planning Your Child’s Back To School Physical For The 2022 School Year
Where did the summer go? August is notorious for “back to school” everything. As a parent it’s important to make a checklist when planning for your child’s return back to school. But, don’t forget to put “back to school physical” on their list. Before you know it, August will be over before you even blink.
With COVID-19 still around and the flu season approaching, you want to make sure your child is up to date on their immunizations, and are cleared for fall sports. Since kids will be kids, we are predicting that the risk for spreading germs will go up this school year. So bring your forms! AFC Urgent Care Marlborough is here to help give your child a comprehensive back to school physical
A Back To School Physical Will Go Over Your Child’s Medical History
It's called an annual physical for a reason. The system needs updating on any recent conditions, injuries and evaluation for potential health risks. An annual back to school physical will help build your child’s medical history so that in case there was ever an emergency, a doctor will be able to perform prompt treatment.
A physical will also track their growth and development and they can be monitored and tracked by a medical professional for things like weight, cholesterol, asthma, diabetes, or any other health condition. If your child needs medical attention, all of this information will be on file for you and their doctor’s knowledge.
And let’s not forget about immunizations. This is also important for your child’s medical history.
Your Child May Need To Renew Their Immunizations
Is your child up to date on their vaccinations? Schools require a prerequisite of vaccinations before your child can attend. All 50 states and DC require vaccinations for diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis; polio; measles and rubella.
Why is it important to renew immunizations? We all have a different vaccine schedule to follow that helps build our immune systems to fight off against diseases that can pose a potential harm to our health. But, it’s not just about us. It’s about everyone else and making sure our little tater tots are not spreading their germs to others who are at a higher risk of getting sick.
What About Your Incoming College Freshman? Yes, They Need Specific Vaccines As Well
Lastly, immunizations are not just for our little ones. Immunizations are also required for incoming college students. Make sure you check with the particular school he/she is attending to find out their immunization requirements as they often differ slightly.
Here is a list of the most common vaccinations required by most colleges and universities:
- Meningitis
- Hepatitis B
- Influenza
- Tetanus
- Diphtheria
- Pertussis
And just so you know, the majority of the colleges and universities in Massachusetts are requiring students to get the COVID-19 vaccine when returning this fall. If you’re unsure if your school requires vaccination or any of the COVID-19 booster shots, contact the school’s health services. You might also see these required vaccines for incoming freshmen:
You Can Now Make An Appointment Online For A Back To School Physical and College Vaccines At AFC Urgent Care Marlborough
Whether your child is planning on playing a fall sport, or if they missed last year’s check up, it’s time to come in for a physical! AFC Urgent Care Marlborough offers school and sports physicals on a walk-in basis or by appointment (NEW). You can get both done in the same visit.
We can also help answer any questions you may have before coming in for a physical like sports injuries and what to expect for the flu season. It’s also important to know that AFC accepts most major insurances and we also offer a low cost self-pay option as well.
