The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services recognizes August as National Immunization Awareness Month which highlights the importance of obtaining recommended vaccinations.
“As children head back to school this fall, scheduling routine vaccinations and wellness checks with primary care providers should be a top priority for Nebraskan families,” said Dr. Timothy Tesmer, Chief Medical Officer at DHHS.
DHHS provides the following checklist to set up your family for success:
- Schedule yearly physicals and immunizations. Communicate with your child’s teacher or school nurse about necessary medications.
- Talk to your child about the importance of safe travel to and from school and being aware of their surroundings. Remind them of stranger danger and discuss how they can protect themselves in the event of an emergency.
- Stock up on school supplies.
- Plan and prepare for a change in family routines. Ease back into sleep schedules. Elementary-aged kids should get 10-12 hours of sleep a night, while teenagers need eight and a half to nine and a half hours.
- Create a quiet workspace for homework, projects, or reading assignments.
- Physical activity may help if your child is feeling anxious or stressed. Exercise can improve focus, mood, and overall well-being while reducing stress.
- Make sure your child has a reusable water bottle. Staying hydrated can have a positive effect on school performance.
- Revisit the importance of hand washing at school and in public.
- Continue to establish and build healthy family habits and routines.
If you have questions about which immunizations your child needs, contact your health provider or visit https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules.