With summer coming to an end, you’re probably exhausted trying to get your child new clothes, back to school school supplies, and taking last minute trips with the family. But, don’t forget to get your child a back-to-school physical. Going back to school means the risk of spreading germs, especially during the flu season and with COVID-19 still being around. A physical is going to make sure they’re up to date on their health and well being.

Let’s not forget about sports and vaccinations. A back to school physical is going to be more comprehensive than a sports physical as it will cover everything from head to toe.

With that being said, AFC Urgent Care Vernon is here to check your little one in for a back to school physical.

Help Your Child Build Their Medical History With A Back To School Physical

Are they planning on playing a fall sport? Do they need prescription medications or be evaluated for conditions like diabetes? A FULL physical will cover all of this. And no, a sports physical will not replace a full physical. But, you can have both done all in the SAME visit.

For example, if they plan on playing a fall sport, they can have their physical fitness tested during their physical. A full physical will help determine if they have any physical limitations like asthma or any weight issues. This is important because if they need medical attention or a prescription for an inhaler to keep with them while they participate in sports, they have everything on file. 

In addition to this, a full physical will look into things unrelated to sports like vision, hearing, lab testing and immunizations.

Is Your Child Up To Date On Their Immunizations?

Unrelated to school sports, a full physical will also dive into your child's vaccine history. Everyone has a vaccine schedule (ages 0-18). It is important to stay up to date so your child can build immunity and protect others who are at high risk of getting sick.

Children and adolescents usually require these vaccines when going to elementary to high school:

• Influenza
• Meningitis
• hepatitis B
• Tetanus 
• Diphtheria 
• Pertussis

Have a College Freshman? Now is the time for their College Physical and Immunization Check

Most college students or incoming freshmen will need similar updated vaccines like the list above, but if you’ve skipped the doctor’s visit, you might need to play catch up.

These are the most common vaccination requirements for incoming freshmen. Important to check with their particular health department to see what that school is specifically requiring: 

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

For more information on vaccine schedules for adults click here (19 and up).

Lastly, your child or college student may need to get vaccinated for COVID-19. Please make sure to check with your child’s school to make sure you meet these requirements. 

Get A Comprehensive Back To School Physical At AFC In Vernon

There’s no place better to get an annual check up than at AFC Urgent Care Vernon. We are affordable, convenient and we provide quality care to all of our friends and families in the Vernon community.

If you can’t get a physical with your primary care doctor, come see us right here, right now on 179 Talcottville Rd. There is no appointment needed, and we are open 7 days a week with extended hours on the weekdays from 8 am to 8 pm and weekend hours from 8 am to 5pm. We also accept most insurances and we are now accepting appointments online!