What Immunization Do Your Kids Need for Back to School?

It’s back-to-school time in Colorado. As you buy notebooks, backpacks, and school clothes, don’t forget about your back-to-school immunizations.

Colorado requires students attending child care and schools to have vaccinations against certain diseases. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) maintains a list of required vaccinations.

Founders Family Medicine provides immunizations for children at our Castle Rock clinic.

What Vaccinations are Required for Colorado Schools?

The vaccination requirements vary by age and facility for the 2022-2023 school year.

Child Care Facilities

Hepatitis B
Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (DTap)
Haemophilus influenza Type B (Hib)
Inactivated poliovirus (IPV)
Pneumococcal conjugate (PCV13)
Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR)
Varicella (chicken pox)

Kindergarten through 12^th Grade

The requirements for K-12 vary by age.

Hepatitis B
Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (DTap)
Inactivated poliovirus (IPV)
Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR)
Varicella (chicken pox)
Tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (Tdap)

Our healthcare team is happy to talk with you about immunizations for your children.

What Other Vaccines Should I Consider for My Child?

COVID-19 Vaccine

If you need an immunization for COVID-19, Founders Family Medicine can help. The COVID-19 vaccine is now available for all school-aged children. CDPHE currently does not require COVID-19 vaccination for children to attend school.

However, vaccination status may impact quarantine and isolation guidelines for local school districts. Check with your local school to understand COVID-19 requirements.

Influenza Vaccine

Influenza vaccines are recommended for everyone six months or older. The flu shot offers protection against illness for school children. While not required, annual flu vaccinations help prevent the spread of infection.

HPV Vaccine

The HPV vaccine helps prevent human papillomavirus, which can lead to cervical and other types of cancer. Vaccinating boys and girls between the ages of nine and 14 works best to prevent disease.

What If My Child is Afraid of Shots?

It’s normal for kids to be afraid of needles. We will do everything possible to ensure your child feels comfortable during their visit. Our healthcare team has training on how to calm fears and answer questions.

We aim to help your child know what to expect and feel relaxed when they come into the office.

What Are Common Side Effects of Vaccinations?

Most side effects from childhood vaccines are mild and go away within 24 hours. Some people experience soreness where the needle was injected, fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. These symptoms usually last less than one day.

Contact our office if your child experiences non-emergency side effects and you need additional information. We are happy to answer your questions.

Invest in a Great Start to the School Year

Stay on top of immunization requirements for school. Not only will it keep you compliant with state and local regulations, but it’ll also protect your child’s health. We offer routine vaccinations as part of a well-kid visit and standalone appointments.

Our healthcare team works with you to determine the correct vaccines based on your child’s age and health history. We care about you and your children. We are here to answer questions and provide updated healthcare information.