As summer ends, the excitement of a new school year approaches. Amid the hustle and bustle of back-to-school shopping and preparations, one critical aspect that should not be overlooked is immunizations. Ensuring your child’s vaccinations are up-to-date protects their health and contributes to the overall well-being of the school community. Let’s explore some essential immunization tips and back-to-school strategies to promote a safe and healthy academic year.

1. Know the Immunization Requirements: Different states and school districts have varying immunization requirements for students. Familiarize yourself with these regulations to ensure your child is adequately protected. Sources such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and your local health department can provide accurate and up-to-date information.
2. Schedule a Checkup: Before the school year begins, schedule a visit to your child’s pediatrician. This is an excellent opportunity to review their vaccination status and receive any necessary immunizations. Make sure to discuss any concerns or questions you might have about vaccines or your child’s health during this appointment.
3. Stay Informed: The field of immunology is constantly evolving, and staying informed about the latest vaccination recommendations is crucial. Reliable sources like the CDC and the World Health Organization (WHO) offer comprehensive information about vaccines’ safety and effectiveness.
4. Plan Ahead: Some vaccines require multiple doses or take time to become effective. Begin the immunization process early to ensure your child is fully protected when school starts. This proactive approach helps prevent last-minute rushes and potential health risks.
5. Educate Your Child: Depending on their age, talk to your child about the importance of immunizations. Use age-appropriate language to explain how vaccines work and how they keep everyone healthy. This conversation can alleviate your child’s anxieties and foster a sense of responsibility toward their health.
6. Boost Overall Health: Alongside immunizations, focus on maintaining your child’s overall health. Adequate sleep, a balanced diet, and regular exercise contribute to a robust immune system, reducing the risk of infections. If your child is on any medications, make sure the school’s nurse is aware. The school nurse can administer the medication just in case.
7. Encourage Good Hygiene: Teach your child about the significance of good hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing and covering their mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing. These habits can prevent the spread of illnesses within the school environment.
8. Lead by Example: As a parent or guardian, lead by example by keeping your vaccinations up-to-date. This demonstrates the importance of immunizations to your child and promotes a culture of health and responsibility.

How AFSPA Can Help

Routine immunizations are covered if you’re enrolled in AFSPA’s Foreign Service Benefit Plan (FSBP). FSBP covers immunizations and well-child visits at 100% when you visit an in-network provider or any provider outside the 50 U.S. FSBP has no age limitations on Influenza and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines. To learn more about this coverage, refer to .

As an FSBP member, you and your dependent child(ren) also have access to Brightline, a virtual mental health service for kids and teens. If your child is nervous or anxious about school, check out this guide from Brightline for tips on returning to school.