CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. (July 22, 2024) – The Carteret County Health Department reminds parents and guardians of school-aged and college-bound students to ensure their children's immunizations are up-to-date before the fall semester.

North Carolina law mandates specific vaccinations for students entering certain grades. All students entering the 7th grade require a Tdap and meningococcal conjugate vaccine. Additionally, as of August 1, 2020, adolescents entering 12th grade or turning 17, whichever comes first, need a meningococcal booster dose. A full list of immunizations required before entering kindergarten, 7th grade, and 12th grade can be found on the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services website.

The Vaccines for Children Program offers free immunizations to those 18 and under who lack health insurance or whose insurance doesn't cover vaccinations. Bring an ID, a copy of your insurance card, and any existing immunization records.

State law also requires a health assessment for all children entering public schools. This assessment, conducted by a doctor within 12 months of school entry, must be documented on a completed health assessment transmittal form submitted to the school by the first day of attendance.

In accordance with North Carolina law, parents and caregivers have 30 days from the first day of school to submit the required immunization record and health assessment transmittal form. Students without the necessary documentation may be excluded from attending school after 30 calendar days.

For specific questions, contact your child's health care provider. To schedule a back-to-school vaccination appointment, call the Carteret County Health Department at 252-728-8550, option 3.

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