In September of 2023, Ohio Vax 2 School is a new program being implemented to ensure that all school-aged children have the necessary vaccines and immunizations needed to attend school. It’s a policy created by the Ohio Department of Health and endorsed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It’s a program that is designed to protect children from preventable diseases, while also helping them to stay healthy and safe while attending school.
What Vaccines Are Required?
The Ohio Vax 2 School program requires all children entering kindergarten, seventh grade, and college to receive the following vaccines: diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, measles, mumps, rubella, hepatitis B, varicella, and meningococcal. The state of Ohio also requires the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine for children entering seventh grade. The required vaccines must be administered at least 30 days prior to the start of school.
Are There Exemptions?
Yes, there are exemptions for religious, medical, and personal reasons. If you are seeking an exemption for religious reasons, you must submit a written statement signed by a duly ordained minister or priest. If you are seeking an exemption for medical reasons, you must submit a written statement signed by a physician. If you are seeking an exemption for a personal reason, you must submit a written statement of objection. All exemptions must be submitted to the Ohio Department of Health.
What Are the Benefits of Ohio Vax 2 School?
The Ohio Vax 2 School program is designed to protect children from preventable diseases and keep them healthy. By ensuring that all children are vaccinated and immunized, it helps to reduce the spread of disease, which in turn helps to keep everyone in the school community safe and healthy. It also helps to reduce the cost of health care, as vaccinations are much less expensive than treating preventable diseases.
How Can I Get Vaccinated?
The Ohio Department of Health recommends that all children receive their vaccinations through their primary care provider or local health department. You can also visit the Ohio Vax 2 School website for more information about where to get vaccinated. If you do not have health insurance, you may be eligible for assistance through the Ohio Vaccines for Children Program. This program provides no-cost vaccines to eligible children.
What Else Can I Do?
In addition to getting your children vaccinated, you can also help to keep everyone in the school community safe by practicing good hygiene and social distancing. Be sure to wash your hands regularly and wear a face covering when in public. Also, stay home if you are feeling ill, and encourage your children to do the same.
What If I Have More Questions?
If you have any additional questions about the Ohio Vax 2 School program, you can contact the Ohio Department of Health or visit the Ohio Vax 2 School website for more information. You can also speak to your child’s school nurse or primary care provider for more information.
Conclusion
The Ohio Vax 2 School program is a great way to keep children safe and healthy. By ensuring that all children are vaccinated and immunized, it helps to reduce the spread of disease and keep everyone in the school community safe. It’s important to remember that all vaccines and immunizations must be administered at least 30 days prior to the start of school. If you have any questions, be sure to contact the Ohio Department of Health or visit the Ohio Vax 2 School website for more information.
