Florida Department of Health in Palm Beach County is consolidating its back to school immunization clinics and outreaches to better serve those needing school shots from July 30 to Aug.17.
“We want every student in need of immunizations for school to be able to get those shots in plenty of time before school starts,” said Dr. Alina Alonso, Director Florida Department of Health in Palm Beach County. “We’ve consolidated our staff and will be offering appointments and accommodating walk-ins at three locations.”
The three locations will be West Palm Beach Health Center, 1150 45th Street, Lantana Health Center, 1250 Southwinds Drive and C.L. Brumback Health Center 38754 SR 80, Belle Glade.
New students to the Palm Beach County School System are required to have a completed DH 680 form as proof their immunizations are up to date. Returning students to the seventh grade will need a Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (Tdap) Booster and a physical. The Department of Health does not offer school physicals.
Everyone is encouraged to visit their physician or medical provider for immunizations. The Health Department immunization clinics are available to those without a medical provider and to accommodate those who may not have been able to get an appointment with their provider in time for school.
From July 30 to Aug. 17 walk-ins on a first come first serve basis will be at West Palm Beach and Lantana. Appointments will be accepted for Belle Glade and West Palm Beach only. Call 561-625-5180.
For immunization information or van locations call (561) 840-4568
Families should bring their child's immunization records to receive necessary immunizations.
Students entering Kindergarten, seventh grade or registering for school in Palm Beach County for the first time must receive vaccinations and provide a Florida Certification of Immunization (DH 680 form) to the school upon registration.
Tim O’Connor at the Palm Beach County Health Department says, “We prefer people go to their primary care physicians, but we are here as a back up if they are running behind or a little late. That's why we are always gear up, starting right now until school starts, to make sure people have their immunizations up to date."
The immunization van will be at different locations throughout the community until the start of school to help give people access to the shots they need.
The health department does not provide physicals.
There is a religious exemption available that parents can apply for at the health department. It is important to note that if you are exempt, it is for all vaccinations, parents cannot pick and choose.
Related Link: Palm Beach County school immunizations requirements and van schedule.
