The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis hosted a free vaccination day for children going back to school. It was in collaboration with Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and Indiana Immunization Coalition.
Executive Director of the Indiana Immunization Coalition Lisa Robertson said it was important for the organizations to come into the community to make immunizations convenient and accessible.
“We’re getting kiddos ready to start the school year. To be protected against all the different diseases that are out there,” said Robertson.
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At no cost to families, Robertson said parents and guardians could come in the evening after work to access care.
“This is something that’s really great for my kids, and I’m glad it’s here. Plus, it’s at the Children’s Museum. My kids would like to see all of the things anyway,” said Jamika Simmons.
She said she was thankful to see free immunizations available for her five-year-old and seven-year-old.
Children’s Museum back-to-school vaccinations
Students in all grades are required to meet the minimum immunization requirements; Indiana law only allows religious and medical exemptions.
“I have a family member who doesn’t believe in vaccinating her kids. It’s tough on them being invalidated because of it. They went on to homeschool their kids, so I see both sides. I ultimately decided to vaccinate my children,” said Tamera Rittle.
“My son is old enough to get the COVID vaccine, but it’s not a requirement, so I’m not rushing to get him that shot vs the other things that are needed for him to go to school.”
The Indiana Immunization Coalition exists to reduce the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases through immunization education, advocacy, promotion and statewide collaborative partnerships.
“We’re making sure our whole community is safe. Making sure there aren’t diseases being spread like measles and chicken pox; things we don’t really think of very much anymore because vaccines have done such a great job,” said Robertson.
The Greater Indianapolis NAACP Unit #3053 and the Marian County Public Health Department were also onsite to offer lead testing.
More information regarding Indiana immunizations requirements and clinics can be found HERE.
Contact staff writer Jade Jackson at 317-607-5792 or by email jadej@indyrecorder.com. Follow her on Twitter @IAMJADEJACKSON
