As August arrives, bringing with it "National Immunization Awareness Month," it's crucial to prioritize your child's health. Amidst the flurry of preparations for the upcoming school year, let's emphasize the importance of immunizations and highlight the opportunity for eligible children to receive back to school vaccinations.

As you tackle your back to school checklist, don't overlook scheduling your child's comprehensive back to school physical. Schools can be hotspots for bacteria, infections, and viruses like the flu. In addition to a thorough checkup, your child may require important yearly vaccinations, blood work, or guidance on injury prevention for fall sports. Unlike a routine checkup, a back to school physical covers all these essential aspects.

At AFC Urgent Care Southington, we're committed to staying ahead of the game and assisting you with back-to-school physicals. Our goal is to equip your child with the necessary measures to stay healthy throughout the school year.

Building a Comprehensive Medical History

Annual checkups play a vital role in your child's growth and development. By scheduling a yearly physical, especially before the school year begins, you help your child establish a comprehensive medical history. These checkups not only aid in early detection of health issues but also provide valuable insights into your child's past illnesses, injuries, and immunization records.

For instance, if you have concerns about your child's asthma, our healthcare professionals can evaluate them and create a management plan to keep their condition under control during the school year. If your child has asthma and plans to participate in fall sports, the annual physical can determine their eligibility. Maintaining detailed records eliminates the need for repetitive evaluations or asthma tests in subsequent years.

Free "Back to School Vaccinations" for Eligible Children

It's important to note that eligible children, including those under the age of 19 with Husky or no insurance, those who are underinsured, or Native Alaskan, have the opportunity to receive free "back to school vaccinations." This initiative ensures that all children have access to vital immunizations, regardless of their insurance coverage.

Immunizations Your Child May Need

Your child may be due for immunization updates. Vaccinations play a crucial role in protecting your loved ones from life-threatening diseases with long-term effects. Even if we may not encounter these diseases directly, taking preventive measures through immunization is paramount.

Schools often require updated immunizations, such as:

• Meningitis
• Hepatitis B
• Influenza
• Tetanus
• Diphtheria
• Pertussis

Depending on your child's age, there is a recommended vaccination schedule. If your child missed a physical or an immunization, refer to the CDC's list of the most common vaccinations for children aged 0-18.

Collegiate Considerations: Specific Vaccines for College Students

Colleges may have specific vaccination requirements, especially for incoming college freshmen residing in dormitories. To ensure compliance, check your child's college website for Health Services, where they typically outline the requirements. If needed, reach out to the college directly for further clarification.

Additionally, many colleges and universities still mandate COVID-19 vaccines or boosters. It's advisable to consult your child's chosen institution for their specific requirements and ensure they receive all the necessary shots.

Typical vaccine requirements for incoming college freshmen may include:

• Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR)
• Human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Meningococcal
• Influenza
• COVID-19

While colleges and universities have their own immunization requirements, it's important not to solely rely on their list. Ensuring your students are fully protected is paramount for their well-being.

Preparing for Fall Sports: Combining Physicals and Sports Clearance

Please note that sports physicals do not replace regular annual physicals! Sports evaluations primarily focus on the athlete's health and their ability to engage in physical activities, whereas annual physicals provide a comprehensive overview of the patient's medical history.

If your child plans to participate in a fall sport, it's advisable to schedule both types of physicals during the same visit for convenience and comprehensive care.

Back To School Immunizations At AFC Urgent Care Southington 

If your child requires health forms to be completed, remember to bring them along. Visit AFC Urgent Care Southington, where our dedicated providers are available to address any questions or concerns you may have regarding physicals, renewing immunizations, and the necessary preparations for the school year. We are open seven days a week, from 8 am to 8 pm on weekdays and from 8 am to 5 pm on weekends. We accept most insurances!

Act now - either walk-in or schedule an appointment to secure your child's well-being and ensure a successful beginning to the school year. We provide an online payment system that enables you to pay your bill with the same ease as walking in or scheduling an appointment. 

With just a few simple clicks, you can easily settle your payment. Again, eligible children can also take advantage of free "back to school vaccinations" if they meet the necessary criteria. Let's prioritize immunizations during National Immunization Awareness Month and protect the health and welfare of our children.