Childhood Vaccinations Lead to Healthier Lives

Vaccinations are a powerful way parents and health care providers can benefit children’s long-term health and wellbeing.

Vaccines are one of the best ways to help kids build their immune systems against potentially harmful diseases, many of which can have long-term health effects, Samaritan health care providers agree.

In addition, Oregon law requires children receive certain vaccines to attend school or a childcare facility.

The American Academy of Pediatrics keeps a schedule of vaccine recommendations as your child grows and advances in school. Your child should be on schedule if you follow these guidelines.

If your child needs to catch up on vaccines, you have until “Exclusion Day” in mid-February. You can check your child’s immunization record online through their MyChart account. If your child does not have a MyChart account, set one up today.

Call your child’s health care provider today for an appointment if they’re missing any vaccinations.

Children at least 18 months old and entering preschool or childcare will need:

• 4 Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis (DTaP).
• 3 Polio.
• 1 Varicella (chickenpox).
• 1 Measles/Mumps/Rubella (MMR).
• 3 Hepatitis B.
• 3 or 4 Hib.

Children entering kindergarten through grade 6 will need:

• 5 Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis (DTaP).
• 4 Polio.
• 1 Varicella (chickenpox).
• 2 MMR or 2 Measles, 1 Mumps, 1 Rubella.
• 3 Hepatitis B.
• 2 Hepatitis A.

Children entering grades 7 or 8 will need:

• 5 Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis (DTaP).
• 1 Tdap booster.
• 4 Polio.
• 1 Varicella (chickenpox).
• 2 MMR or 2 Measles, 1 Mumps, 1 Rubella.
• 3 Hepatitis B.
• 2 Hepatitis A.

Children entering grades 9 through 12 will need:

• 5 Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis (DTaP).
• 1 Tdap booster.
• 4 Polio.
• 1 Varicella (chickenpox).
• 2 MMR or 2 Measles, 1 Mumps, 1 Rubella.
• 3 Hepatitis B.