Protecting Child Health
The Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program is a federal program that covers vaccines recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and approved by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Children through 18 years of age that meet at least one of the following criteria are eligible for VFC program vaccines free of charge:
- Children enrolled in Medicaid or CHIPS
- Children who do not have insurance
- Children who are American Indian or Alaskan Native
- Children who have health insurance that does not cover
If a child has insurance that covers vaccines but their primary care provider does not carry the vaccines that are needed, A REFERRAL from the primary care provider IS REQUIRED BEFORE any vaccines can be given.
Immunizations are given every day from the hours of 8 am to 3:30 pm, as long as a nurse if available. NO appointment is necessary, however, we encourage you to call ahead to ensure a nurse is available. MUST have immunization record in order to vaccine child.
Available Vaccines
For more information regarding the diseases listed below, please see: http://www.dhhr.wv.gov/oeps/immunization/vpds/Pages/default.aspx
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis B
Measles
Mumps
Rubella
Tetanus
Diphtheria
Pertussis
Chicken Pox
Polio
HIB
Pneumococcal
Flu (when available)
Meningococcal
Rotavirus
HPV (available for males & females)
West Virginia Statewide Immunization Information System (WVSIIS)
All vaccines given at the Health Department are entered in the WVSIIS data base. The West Virginia Statewide Immunization Information System (WVSIIS) helps ensure that all children, adolescents and adults have current immunizations.
These shots provide protection from diseases like measles, rotavirus, human papillomavirus, hepatitis and pertussis (whooping cough).
WVSIIS is a confidential, computerized information system that keeps complete and up-to-date shot records. State law requires all providers to report all shots they administer to children under age 18 to WVSIIS within two weeks. Providers who use the reporting system are able to print reminders for those needing future vaccinations.
Another benefit is that WVSIIS helps prevent unnecessary immunizations or revaccination by alerting providers prior to administering the shot(s). All shot records are protected the same as any other confidential medical record.
Vaccine Information Statement (VIS)
As required under the National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act (42 U.S.C. §300aa-26), all healthcare providers in the United States who administer, to any child or adult, any vaccine shall, prior to administration of each dose of the vaccine, provide a copy the parent or legal representative of any child to whom the provider intends to administer such vaccine, or to any adult to whom the provider intends to administer such vaccine.
Below are the current VIS’s for each vaccine.
http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/vis/index.html
Influenza Immunizations
Each year, new strains of influenza emerge. That is why flu vaccinations are needed yearly. The Jackson County Health Department typically holds flu clinics starting in October through December to protect the citizens of our county. Clinic dates are posted as soon as flu vaccine is received.
e flu vaccine is available for West Virginia residents who are 6 months and older. Please note your insurance company may be billed. For information regarding the 2014-2015 influenza season please visit: www.cdc.gov/flu/about/season/index.htm
Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting
It is important to contact your healthcare provider immediately if you or your child has had a serious reaction to a vaccine. Health care providers will report your reaction to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS). You can also file a report yourself.
All serious reactions should be reported, even if you aren’t sure which vaccine it was caused by. VAERS uses this data to help identify serious reactions that may need further investigation.
For the link to report an adverse reaction go to http://vaers.hhs.gov/index
International Travel Immunizations
While travel to destinations beyond North America and Europe is common, so are serious health risks - especially where sanitation and medical conditions are poor.
Diseases such as tetanus, diphtheria, hepatitis, typhoid, yellow fever and malaria pose threats to the unvaccinated traveler.
Each traveler’s immunization requirements and risk of disease exposure are unique depending on several different factors which include:
- Current Health status
- Length of time in foreign country
- Purpose of travel
- Type of accommodations
- Food and water sources
- Itinerary
Please keep in mind that some immunizations schedules may require more than one dose of the vaccine and this could take up to six months.
For information regarding immunizations that may be recommended or require please visit: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel or you may contact the health department below that offer International travel immunizations.
Childcare, Public School, and College Immunization Requirements
There are certain immunization requirements depending on the facility and a child’s age. For the most current information regarding these requirements and the West Virginia State law requiring the immunizations please see: http://www.dhhr.wv.gov/oeps/immunization/requirements/Pages/default.aspx
Children and Adult Immunization Schedule
For a current list of immunization requirements and an interactive immunization scheduler, click on the following link: http://www.dhhr.wv.gov/oeps/immunization/schedules/Pages/default.aspx
For scheduling questions, please contact our office.
