By Dr. Angela Dangvu, a pediatrician in the CHOC Primary Care Network, now Rady Children’s Health
Why back-to-school vaccines matter
As the excitement of a new school year builds, many parents are busy shopping for supplies, picking out new clothes and organizing schedules. But there’s one more essential item that belongs on every family’s back-to-school checklist: vaccinations.
Ensuring your child is up to date on routine immunizations not only protects them from preventable diseases—it also helps keep classrooms and communities healthy. Here’s what parents need to know about school vaccine requirements and recommendations.
What vaccines do children need before starting kindergarten?
Children entering kindergarten should have received the following vaccines between the ages of 4 and 5:
- MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
- Varicella (chickenpox)
- Polio
- DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis/whooping cough)
If your child has not received these immunizations, it’s important to schedule them before school begins.
What vaccines are required for seventh grade?
Students entering seventh grade need:
- A Tdap booster (required for school entry)
- The HPV vaccine
- A meningitis vaccine
When do cold and flu season typically begin?
The cold season often begins as soon as students return to school in late summer. Flu season usually starts in November and peaks between December and February.
When should kids get the flu vaccine?
Doctors recommend getting the flu vaccine in September or October, ideally before Halloween. This timing helps ensure protection during the months when the virus is most active.
Are vaccines safe for children?
Yes. Vaccines are very safe and effective, supported by decades of research and real-world use. Pediatricians—including Dr. Angela Dangvu of Rady Children’s Health—reassure parents that doctors give these same vaccines to their own children and recommend them to family and friends.
How do vaccines protect children who can’t be vaccinated?
High vaccination rates in schools help protect vulnerable children who cannot receive vaccines due to medical conditions. This community protection, known as herd immunity, reduces the spread of contagious diseases and safeguards everyone.
Where can parents get reliable vaccine information?
- Talk to your pediatrician for guidance tailored to your child.
- Visit HealthyChildren.org, a site by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
If you do not have a pediatrician, you can search for one at choc.org, or contact your local public health department, especially if you lack health insurance.
How to schedule your child’s vaccinations
Call your child’s pediatrician to book an appointment. Many clinics offer back-to-school immunization appointments in late summer. Don’t wait—early action ensures your child starts the year protected and ready to learn.
Schedule a vaccination appointment for your child
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