It’s time for back-to-school immunizations

Making appointments now will save time later

Reno, NV – The beginning of school is still weeks away for most people, but health officials and immunization advocates are urging students to get their shots now and escape the traditional back-to-school rush.

“Parents and students can avoid long lines and waiting if they schedule immunization appointments now,” said Lynnie Shore, Washoe County Health District Immunization Coordinator. “At this point we are staffing the telephone appointment line Monday through Friday and have excellent availability to schedule times that are convenient for everybody.” Appointments are required for vaccinations at the Washoe County Health District, and can be made by calling 775-328-2402.  Shore also added that two community (off-site) Saturday immunization events have been scheduled for August 1^st from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 pm at the Sun Valley Neighborhood Center at 115 West 6^th Avenue and August 8^th from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at the Boys and Girls Club Pennington Facility at 1300 Foster Drive, in partnership with Immunize Nevada and the Nevada State Immunization Program for children 4-18 years of age, on a first come first served basis, as supplies last. 

According to Shore, it is very important that parents keep their child’s records current, and bring those records to the appointment. This ensures children get the appropriate vaccinations at the appropriate times and do not get unnecessary immunizations.  It also enables the immunization process to go more quickly, and can streamline other processes such as school and day care registration. If you cannot locate immunization records, contact your health care provider, visit  Nevada WebIZ, a statewide immunization registry online at www.izrecord.nv.gov, or call Nevada WebIZ at (1-877) 689-3249.

While immunizations are available at the Washoe County District Health District at 1001 East Ninth Street, Building B, in Reno, other options such as private providers, pharmacies and special clinics should be considered. A listing of upcoming low or no-cost clinics can be found on the Immunize Nevada website at https://immunizenevada.org/news-events/calendar.

The Health District recommends that children who have insurance coverage for immunizations visit their health care provider. For more information on immunizations, fees, and insurance acceptance at the Health District visit http://bit.ly/1RKI3my.

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About Washoe County Health District: The Washoe County District Board of Health, through the Washoe County Health District, has jurisdiction over all public health matters in Washoe County, Nevada. Its mission is to protect and enhance the quality of life for all citizens of Washoe County through health promotion, disease prevention, public health emergency preparedness, and environmental services. The Board of Health is composed of seven members, including two representatives each from Reno, Sparks, and Washoe County, and a physician licensed to practice medicine in Nevada.