Local doctor reminds parents to get kids vaccinated before school begins – WSAV-TV

SAVANNAH, Ga (WSAV) Many students across the Coastal Empire are heading back to the classrooms, and there are certain immunization requirements needed before hitting the books.

To keep students healthy during the school year, the state of Georgia requires students to get certain vaccines against diseases.

News 3 met with Memorial Health Pediatrician Dr. Ashley Cheek, who stressed the importance of keeping students shot record up to date.

Most of the schools are cracking down and not allowing entry without these shots being updated, so checks are really important, Dr. Cheek said.

The measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV) are a few required vaccines.

According to Dr. Cheek, a lot of vaccines and boosters are recommended and performed once children turn 4-years-old.

Another thing that is important is that an 11-year-old well-child check is important because it also updates the tetanus shot provides the opportunity for the meningococcal vaccine and the hpv vaccine. Hpv vaccines help prevent cancer.

Dr. Cheek emphasized how important annual check-ups are and it helps with last minute stress before the first bell of the school year rings.

If your first-time student is getting ready for pre-k there is the hearing, dental and eyesight check certification too.

Traditionally, its annual, Dr. Cheek said. As long as they come in with their annual visits on time, theyll be able to have everything updated.

For a list of required Georgia vaccines, visit here. For a list of required vaccines in South Carolina, visit here.

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Local doctor reminds parents to get kids vaccinated before school begins - WSAV-TV