Do you have an incoming kindergartener, seventh grader, or even a college freshman? Getting registered for school is an exciting time of year for students and families. Before the rush of back-to-school shopping, now is the perfect time to make sure your students are up to date with their immunizations. Vaccines are essential to a healthy school year and protecting students from serious illness.
In Texas, a student shall show acceptable documentation of vaccination before entering, attending, or transferring to a childcare facility or public or private elementary or secondary school. Vaccine requirements are determined by the state legislature and set by the Texas Department of State Health Services, in conjunction with the Texas Education Agency. More information on the required immunizations for K-12th graders in Texas can be found here. Check with your child’s provider or school nurse to get an updated vaccination record for your child.
If you’re worried about the cost of vaccinating your kids before school begins, The Texas Vaccines for Children (TVFC) program may be able to help. The TVFC Program provides vaccines for children for families who may not be able to afford them.
Children are eligible to receive vaccinations through the TVFC program if they are 18 years of age or younger and meet at least one of the eligibility criteria listed below:
- Enrolled or eligible for participation in the Medicaid program
- American Indian or Alaska Native (As defined by 25 U.S.C. 1603)
- Uninsured Children: Children who do not have health insurance
- Underinsured Children: Children with private insurance but coverage:
- Does not include vaccines
- Only includes select vaccines
If your child is eligible to receive vaccines under the TVFC program, we can help get them up to date during our regular office hours.
