Hays County Local Health Department (HCLHD) is hosting a back-to-school fair to encourage student vaccinations. The event takes place Aug. 5 just in time for the upcoming school year and it aligns with National Immunization Awareness Month.
The HCLHD is a participant in the Texas Vaccines for Children (TVFC) program, which provides low-cost vaccines to eligible children up to the age of 18 who meet the criteria.
“It is very important that students receive their vaccinations in the weeks prior to school starting,” said Hays County Health Department Manager Matthew Gonzales. “Not only does this prepare the students for school, it makes it easier to obtain vaccinations without overwhelming local clinics.”
HCLHD’s back-to-school fair will give parents and students the chance to receive free vaccinations under the TVFC program. TVFC is available for those who are participants in the Medicaid program, enrolled in the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), American Indian or Alaska Native and uninsured or underinsured children. The vaccines provided include Hepatitis A, Polio, Varicella, and more. Parents can find which specific vaccines are needed for the school year on their child’s school website.
HCLHD will continue with free back-to-school vaccines under the TVFC program between Aug. 7-11.
“We are very excited for the back-to-school fair,” Gonzales said. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for families to get their students vaccinated.”
He added, “Vaccinations keep students healthy and protect them from diseases. Keeping up to date on vaccinations also contributes to a healthy school environment.”
The HCLHD Back-to-School Fair is also an opportunity for the community to see the HCLHD’s new home, located at 101 Thermon Drive in San Marcos. The department will begin officially operating out of the new location beginning August 7.
Gonzales said it’s a community and family-friendly event.
“We will have various vendors sharing resources and details about their services, similar to the Hays County Summer Health Fair,” Gonzales said. “We will also have games set up for the children to enjoy.”
The event takes place on Aug. 5 from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Contact Matthew Gonzales at (512) 214-5918 with any questions. For more information, be sure to like and follow the HCLHD Facebook page.
It is recommended that children get school vaccines over summer break to avoid the end-of-summer rush. Anyone who is unable to attend the fair or come to the HCLHD clinic can find locations throughout Hays County where providers are enrolled in TVFC. Visit our website for info.
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