Back-to-school vaccinations
The Monroe County Health Department encourages parents to have their children vaccinated before school starts on August 20. Schools require that kindergartners receive vaccinations against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (DTap); polio (IPV); measles, mumps and rubella (MMR); and chickenpox (VZV). Seventh-graders are required to have a TDaP vaccination, which prevents diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis. In addition to the required vaccinations, the department recommends that children be vaccinated against hepatitis A, meningococcal disease and the human papillomavirus (HPV). Clinics will be held as follows. Parents are asked to bring proof of insurance or proof of income, as well as any vaccination records they might have for their children. For more information, call 809-5653. Key West: Roosevelt Sands Center, 105 Olivia Street, August 15 and 16, 8:30-11:00 a.m. and 1:30-4:00 p.m. Marathon: Ruth Ivins Center, 3333 Overseas Highway, August 13, 9:30-11:00 a.m and 1:00-3:30 p.m.; August 17, 9:00-11:00 a.m. and 1:30-4:00 p.m. Tavernier: Roth Building, 50 High Point Road, August 17 and 20, 8:30-11:00 a.m. and 1:30-4:00 p.m.