The Frederick County Health Department (FCHD) will be hosting Back-to- School vaccination clinics from August 6 to September 11 for children who do not have health insurance, have health insurance that does not cover the cost of immunizations, or who are unable to get vaccinated by their healthcare provider. Vaccinations will be free for these children and appointments are required. Call 301- 600-1733 to request an appointment or schedule online.

Children who have health insurance that covers vaccinations are encouraged to see their healthcare provider.

Maryland State Law (COMAR 10.06. 04.03) requires all students enrolled in pre-kindergarten through Grade 12 to receive age-appropriate immunizations. The Maryland vaccination requirements for the 2024-2025 school year are available online at https://health.maryland.gov/.

School vaccination requirements help protect children by making sure they are protected against vaccine-preventable diseases. Children who are not vaccinated can spread diseases to others, particularly to those who are too young to be vaccinated, or people with weakened immune systems, such as those with cancer. The school must have proof of immunizations before allowing a student to begin school. Students who have not received the required vaccinations may be unable to attend school until proof of vaccination is provided, according to Maryland requirements.

Important information for parents/guardians: (1) Children 17 years of age and younger must be accompanied by an adult 18 years of age or older; (2) If a parent or guardian will not be bringing their child, they must send a written note giving the individual bringing the child authorization to have the child vaccinated; (3) All vaccinated children are required to remain at the clinic for observation after vaccination; (4) Only one parent or guardian may accompany children who have an appointment (additional persons will not be admitted); Please DO NOT come to the vaccination clinic if child or parent/guardian has any symptoms or are waiting for COVID-19 results. For more information, visit the website at Health. FrederickCountyMD.gov/Immunization.