— from Anne Presson for Orcas Island Health Care District —

Get a jump start on all things back to school. Schedule an appointment now to review the vaccines your child may need for this school year. The Orcas Island Health Care District encourages you to call either the Orcas Family Health Center (360-376-7778) or UW Medicine Orcas Island Clinic (360-376-2561) to set up an appointment.

Over the last few years, Washington State has seen outbreaks of Measles, Mumps, Pertussis (Whooping Cough), and Chicken Pox. Immunizations can help reduce and even stop the spread of these diseases. For more information on outbreaks, immunizations, and other topics, visit the Washington State Department of Health website at www.doh.wa.gov/CommunityandEnvironment/Schools/Immunization.

Both medical clinics on Orcas participate in the Washington State Childhood Vaccine Program, which provides publicly purchased vaccines for all children under 19 years of age. The program supplies all the vaccines recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, and the vaccines are provided at no cost to all children seen at the clinics. The Washington State Childhood Vaccine program eliminates or reduces cost barriers to receiving childhood vaccinations. You can read more at: www.doh.wa.gov/ForPublicHealthandHealthcareProviders/PublicHealthSystemResourcesandServices/Immunization/ChildhoodVaccineProgram.

It’s also important that as a parent you are up to date on your vaccinations. OFHC and UW Medicine Orcas Island Clinic provide an array of vaccines for adults. Be sure to schedule a visit with your provider to learn more.

.

**If you are reading theOrcasonian for free, thank your fellow islanders. If you would like to support theOrcasonian CLICK HERE to set your modestly-priced, voluntary subscription. Otherwise, no worries; we’re happy to share with you.**