For the Tomahawk Leader
LINCOL N COUNTY – As part of National Immunization Awareness Month, the Lincoln County Health Department (LCHD) recently provided information on updates to school immunizations in Wisconsin, as well as vaccine clinics being offered ahead of the start of the school year.
A release from LCHD said new changes to school immunization requirements now include one dose of meningococcal vaccine for students entering 7th grade and a booster dose for eligible students entering 12th grade.
LCHD said a parent report of chickenpox disease is no longer acceptable for exemption from the varicella (chickenpox) vaccine requirement.
“Children must have a diagnosis of chickenpox from a qualified health care provider (M.D., D.O., N.P., or P.A.) to be exempt from this requirement,” LCHD stated. “However existing exemption options still apply.”
LCHD noted that the changes will go into effect for the 2024-2025 school year unless further legal change occurs prior to the start of the school year.
For full guidance on Wisconsin’s school law requirements, go to www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/immunization/reqs.htm.
“Vaccines help to support a healthy and balanced lifestyle, keep your immune system strong and prepare children’s immune systems to keep them growing, learning and thriving,” said Kristi Krombholz, Public Health Nurse.
Children needing vaccines should schedule an appointment with their provider, pharmacist or health department, LCHD said.
Children who have no health insurance, children with health insurance but no vaccine coverage, children on Medicaid/Badgercare or children who are Native American/Alaskan Native can receive all routine immunizations, including the flu vaccine, through LCHD.
Students that meet the provided guidelines may attend LCHD’s youth vaccine clinics on Wednesday, Aug. 21 or Wednesday, Oct. 23, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Pre-registration is required and can be completed by calling LCHD at 715-536-0307 or visiting www.bit.ly/4aBiluA.
For more information about vaccine-preventable diseases, visit www.lincolncountyhealthdepartment.com.