By Andy Dahn

BLOOMINGTON – Back to school time is here and local health officials are reminding parents to get their children vaccinated before returning to the classroom.

McLean County Department of Health Immunization Supervisor Trish Cleary explained what kinds of immunizations students of different ages require this school year.

“Sixth graders need a meningitis shot in addition to their T Dot vaccine,” Cleary said. “And twelfth graders need another meningitis vaccine if they haven’t had it after age 16.”

While the vaccine can be pricey, Cleary said now is the time.

“These are the age groups we need to target,” said Cleary. “We know that the highest disease rate for meningitis is 16 and up and the highest death rate from this terrible disease starts at about age 13. So we want to get the kids immunized before they’re at risk.”

Cleary said those who cannot afford the vaccine for their children have options.

“It is a high priced one,” Cleary said. “I would investigate with your insurance to see if it pays. We also have a program at the health department that will help parents called the Vaccine for Children program. If you qualify for that, you can get the vaccine for little or nothing.”

Cleary added that meningitis is a very easy disease to transmit to others, and says a common reason for transmission is students sharing water bottles.

More information on the vaccines and the Vaccine for Children program can be found online at health.mcleancounty.IL.gov.

Andy Dahn can be reached at [email protected].