With the first day of school approaching for Chattooga County students, the Georgia Department of Public Health is encouraging parents to make sure their children’s immunizations and required health records are up to date before classes begin.

Georgia law requires children attending public and private schools, pre-kindergarten programs and childcare facilities to have a valid Georgia Certificate of Immunization (Form 3231) on file. Parents who are unsure whether their child is current on required vaccines should contact their healthcare provider or local health department before the back-to-school rush.

The state also has additional vaccine requirements for students entering certain grade levels. Students entering 7th grade must have one dose of the Tdap vaccine and one dose of the meningococcal conjugate vaccine documented on Form 3231. Students entering 11th grade must have proof of a meningococcal booster (MCV4) unless they received their first meningococcal vaccine on or after their 16th birthday.

In addition to immunizations, children enrolling in a Georgia public school for the first time must also have a completed Georgia Certificate of Vision, Hearing, Dental and Nutrition Screening (Form 3300). Parents are encouraged to schedule appointments as soon as possible to avoid delays before the school year begins.

The Georgia Department of Public Health recommends checking with your child’s physician or the Chattooga County Health Department if you have questions about immunization requirements or need assistance obtaining the required forms.