Vaccinations, physical and dental exams, and return to school

Before a new school year starts, there is always a list of things that must be done. In particular, learn about the latest immunizations and physical exams required by most academic institutions.

Vaccination is important because it seeks protection and immunity against diseases that, while less common, are still present and can be deadly, such as meningitis, measles, mumps, chickenpox, rotavirus and polio, among others .

“It is important to protect our children from outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases. Immunizations are important to keep children safe and ready for school. If most students are vaccinated, this helps to significantly reduce the chances of community infection.” risk, that is, the risk of disease transmission from person to person”, emphasizes Dr. Rosa Castro Ávila, Executive Director of the NeoMed Center. “It also helps protect those who cannot be vaccinated for health reasons, such as those with certain severe allergies, and those with weakened or compromised immune systems, such as those with cancer, HIV/AIDS, 1 Type 2 diabetes or other health issues. Health,” he added.

Under the immunization law approved on September 25, 1983, the Puerto Rico Department of Health requires all elementary, middle and high school students to be vaccinated with an up-to-date series of vaccines. These vaccines must be registered on the P-VAC-3 form.

Children get multiple doses of the vaccine between birth and 18 months, with additional doses between 4 and 5 years and 11 and 12 years of age.

Children aged 4 and 5 must have the following vaccines: measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR); polio; diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP); chickenpox (also called varicella); and hepatitis B.

Between the ages of 11 and 12, the following immunizations are recommended: Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap) booster; Human Papillomavirus (HPV); Complete the series indicated on the Immunization Form to ensure necessary immunity against the virus meningitis (meningococcal bacteria); the annual flu vaccine; and any vaccines that were not given in infancy, such as hepatitis A.

For new students under age 21, they will need: Tetanus, diphtheria and acellular pertussis (Tdap) booster and/or Tetanus and diphtheria (Td) booster. Cases; two doses of common measles, rubella and mumps (MMR) vaccine; three doses of hepatitis B vaccine; three doses of polio vaccine (OPV/IPV) if last dose was given at or after age four .

As for the vaccine against COVID-19, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone six months and older get a newer vaccine, known as a bivalent vaccine.

Many parents and guardians of minors are concerned about the safety of vaccines. The safety and effectiveness of the vaccine are constantly being studied.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves vaccines and establishes controls and monitoring measures after licensure. The agency works closely with the CDC to make recommendations on the use of the vaccine. It is recommended to refer to reliable sources for information on vaccines.

The Importance of Annual Physical and Dental Exams

Pursuant to Law No. 63 of 2017, all students in even-numbered grades (K, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12) in Puerto Rico’s public and private educational institutions must submit a certificate of oral examination, which includes teeth cleaning, plaque removal And apply fluoride. The certificate must be completed by a licensed dentist or dentist in Puerto Rico and must be valid within one year of issue.

On the other hand, the annual physical exam by the pediatrician is an important part of verifying the general health of children and adolescents, as well as treating or addressing certain health issues or any emotional, social, or/or emotional problems that may arise part. Development owned by parent, mother or guardian. Regular checkups are important if your child has a chronic medical condition such as asthma, infection or allergies.

For more information or questions about the vaccination program, you may contact (787) 737-2311 or (787) 737-5373 or visit the portal at www.neomedcenter.org.