County Public Health Department launches back-to-school immunization program and website
SANTA BARBARA COUNTY, Calif. – As summer winds down and back-to-school preparations are made, Santa Barbara County Public Health Department reminds parents to get their children's vaccinations ready for the new school year.
“Back-to-school season is the perfect time to make sure your children are up to date on all recommended vaccines including the COVID-19 vaccine,” said Dr. Henning Ansorg, Health Officer of Santa Barbara County. “Staying up to date on routine vaccinations helps you, your family, and your community stay healthy and prevent deadly diseases like measles and whooping cough (pertussis).”
State law requires children to have specific immunizations in order to attend public and private elementary and secondary schools as well as licensed childcare centers.
Even the newest students heading to transitional kindergarten will need their immunizations before the first day of school.
Schools, pre-kindergarten facilities, and licensed childcare centers are required to enforce immunization requirements, maintain immunization records of all children enrolled, and submit student immunization status reports to the California Department of Public Health.
More information about state-required immunizations can be found here and the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department has an Immunization Program website to help local parents get their little learners ready for a new and safe school year.
