Lee County, FL - The Florida Department of Health in Lee County is asking all parents of students entering 7th grade to update their children’s immunizations now before the rush. Public schools start in Lee County August 24, 2015.

“Taking care of these important immunizations now will ensure everyone gets to enjoy the first day of 7th grade as they should,” said Kim Wester, immunizations manager for DOH-Lee. “We also recommend meningitis and HPV vaccines when they get their 7th grade Tdap booster to prevent devastating and unnecessary illnesses in the future.”

All students entering 7th grade must have a Tdap booster before attending classes. Students not properly immunized by the first day of classes will be sent home. See your private provider, or come to DOH-Lee for vaccines or to update a child’s shot record.

All vaccines for children 18 years old and younger are free, and administered without appointments from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 1 to 3:30 p.m. Friday at DOH-Lee, 3920 Michigan Avenue, Fort Myers. Parents must bring their child’s immunization records.

Beginning August 10 the immunization clinic will open an hour earlier at 7 a.m. and remain open to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The extended hours will end at 3:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 24.

You can avoid long lines, and make sure your child has everything needed to start school on time by getting required immunizations now. Limited appointments are available by calling 239-461-6100.