Now is the time to get the vaccines your kids need before the start of the school year.
The Minnesota Department of Health requires that kids entering school receive vaccines for hepatitis B, diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (whooping cough), polio, measles, mumps, and rubella, and varicella (chicken pox). They also recommend the hepatitis A vaccine for all children and the human papillomavirus vaccine, which prevents cervical cancer, for girls ages 10 and 11.
Many programs and health insurance plans cover all or part of vaccinations, but those in need can receive free vaccines as part of the Minnesota Vaccines for Children Program. The program covers the cost of the vaccine, and most Minnesota clinics participate. Children up to age 18 are eligible if they are in a Minnesota Health Care Program, have limited or no insurance, or are Native American or an Alaska native.
For more information on required vaccines or the Minnesota Vaccines for Children Program, contact the Minnesota Department of Health at 1-800-657-3970 or 651-201-5503.
