With the new school year and flu season approaching, the Orange County Health Department (OCHD) and Florida Department of Health (DOH) are reminding family members, friends, co-workers and neighbors of the importance of receiving routine, up-to-date immunizations.
August is recognized as National Immunization Awareness Month by OCHD, DOH and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
“Vaccines are safe and effective protection,” said Dr. Kevin M. Sherin, Director of the Orange County Health Department. “By staying up-to-date on recommended vaccinations, individuals can protect themselves, their families, and loved ones from disease.”
Parents can visit the Orange County Health Department Immunization Clinic or their medical homes or private doctor to have their children vaccinated. The Orange County Health Department Immunization Program provides back-to-school immunizations Monday through Friday from 7:30am to 3:00pm at its Central Office located at 832 West Central Boulevard. Parents are urged to arrive early as tickets are usually given out by 10:00am during the month of August.
Due to the high demand for immunizations, services are provided on a first come, first served, walk-in basis. Children must be accompanied by an adult family member or legal guardian to receive immunizations. If not, a notarized permission form, signed by the parent or legal guardian, must be presented before services are rendered. A copy of each child’s immunization record and government-issued, valid photo identification of the adult relative or legal guardian are required.
A certified DH 680 immunization form is required for school entry and is provided free once your child has received all of their vaccinations. If a client only needs a DH 680 form there is an administrative fee. You can also obtain this form at your child’s doctor’s office and the OCHD immunization clinic or medical records departments if your child is already up-to-date on their immunizations.
Because children are particularly vulnerable to infection, most vaccines are given during the first five to six years of life. Some immunizations are recommended throughout adolescent and adult years.
For more information on childhood immunizations, call 407-836-2517 or visit our website at www.orchd.com.
