Wake County Public Health Department hosting first back-to-school vaccine clinic

WAKE COUNTY, N.C. (WTVD) -- We are just weeks away from the start of the traditional school year and today the Wake County Public Health Department is hosting its first back-to-school vaccination clinic.

New numbers from the CDC show childhood vaccination rates have dropped for a fifth year in a row both nationally and locally.

Nearly 93% of North Carolina kindergarten students are up to date on all required vaccinations including measles, mumps, and rubella.

3.1% of students are exempt for medical or religious reasons.

Here in Wake County, the number is slightly higher at 94%, but doctors say community immunity is 95%.

State law requires students entering kindergarten, 7th, and 12th grades their school to have required vaccines.

That's why public health leaders are making sure these vaccine clinics are available for families to eliminate any barriers.

"We want to give parents the opportunity. We also have had children excluded from the academic culture in the past. So we're trying to support Wake County Public School System as a partner in the community with making sure those children can be at school," said Tina Payton.

Families have 30 days from the first day of attendance to show up-to-date records.

If they don't that student will be prohibited from attending school.

Today's clinic is from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. at Southern Regional Center.

Cumberland County Schools

The Cumberland County Department of Public Health will also be offering back-to-school Immunizations Evening Clinics in the Health Department, at 1235 Ramsey Street in Fayetteville.

The evening clinic is available for students entering kindergarten, grade seven and grade 12.

It will take place on August 12, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.