The Berrien County Health Department is offering a walk-in clinic this month to help ensure children have all of their back-to-school vaccinations.
On September 17, the health department’s Benton Harbor office will host a walk-in clinic from 9 to 4 p.m.
Berrien County Health Department public nurse and school coordinator Karen Kortebein says making sure kids have their vaccines is the best way to protect them and others from infectious diseases.
“Most schools are back in session as of today, and there are still those children who have been excluded from attending school, possibly because they haven’t gotten their immunizations updated,” Kortbein said. “So that’s why we’re holding a walk-in clinic.”
The Berrien County Health Department continues to encourage parents to get their kids vaccinated. It also offers school-required immunizations by appointment at both locations in Benton Harbor and Niles.
“We would like to get everybody caught up so the schools can be on track for meeting their goals of immunization compliance with the state of Michigan.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides guidance on recommended vaccines for various age groups. In Michigan, vaccines required for school entry include:
Diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis
Haemophilus influenzae type B
Hepatitis B
Measles, mumps and rubella
Meningitis
Pneumococcal
Polio
Varicella (chickenpox)