As students and school staff transition into another school year, families look to their friendships and partnerships to smooth the transition.

In public health, we do the same! Our collaboration on two back-to-school vaccine clinics for students last month is a great example. We owe a huge THANK YOU to our partners:

• Tacoma Public Schools.
• MultiCare Mt. Tahoma School Based Health Center.
• SeaMar Lincoln High School-Based Health Center.

 Each played a vital role in making the events successful.

Why are vaccines important?

Staying up to date on vaccinations is important for everyone. Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to prevent illness. Getting vaccinated protects you, your family and your community.

Children who attend school and childcare need certain vaccines before the first day. This helps prevent the spread of diseases in hallways, classrooms, and extracurriculars.

In addition to the vaccines kids need for school, there are also age-based vaccine recommendations. These are important for families to consider because they protect you from certain types of cancers and infections.

For more information on vaccines, talk to your child’s pediatrician or check out our frequently asked questions.

What are school-based health centers?

If your child missed the clinics and still needs vaccinations, they might be able to take advantage of a school-based health center (SBHC).

We’re fortunate to have several in Pierce County! They’re a partnership between school districts and healthcare providers that offer a full range of services to students, including:

• Vaccines.
• Sports physicals.
• Primary care.
• Mental health referrals.

Any students enrolled in the host school’s district can receive services at:

• MultiCare Onsite Health Clinic—Mt. Tahoma High School
• SeaMar School-Based Health Center—Lincoln High School.
• Community Health Care—Bethel School District.
  • Bethel Middle School.
  • Spanaway Middle School.
  • Graham-Kapowsin High School.

 We also want to connect you to other resources to help kids stay healthy and ready for school, such as:

• Family Support Centers.
• Youth behavioral health.
• Youth substance use prevention.

Will there be more vaccine clinics for kids?

If your child still needs vaccines, it isn’t too late to find a local vaccine clinic. Several local organizations are working together to jointly hold events in Pierce County this fall:

• The Bessler Center at Mary Bridge Children’s.
• Pierce County Medical Reserve Corps.
• Acts Pharmacy & Healthcare Services.

You can find details and pre-registration links on our website. You can also find more locations for kids’ vaccines across Pierce County if you aren’t able to visit your primary care provider or do not have an established medical home.

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