SCHD hosts back-to-school immunization clinic for kids

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Shelby County Health Department hosted a free vaccine clinic for kids Saturday, before they get ready to head back to school.

The event was hosted in partnership with Memphis-Shelby County Schools and Le Boneheur and St. Jude hospitals.

Kids could get vaccinated against polio, MMR, tetanus, and any shot they may need or have missed, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr. Sandy Arnold, chief of pediatric diseases at Le Bonheur, said COVID has disrupted kids’ ability to get regular well-child visits over the last few years.

“We know that a lot of children in Tennessee and around the country have fallen behind on their vaccines, so we are partnering with MSCS and the Shelby County Health Department to get kids who will be starting school soon all caught up on their shots,” she said.

HPV vaccines were also available, even though they’re not required for back-to-school.

More vaccine clinics are scheduled before school starts.

On July 30, you can head to Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church on N. Bellevue for a clinic. The following Saturday, the clinic returns to the MSCS Teaching and Learning Academy on Union Avenue.

Both clinics are from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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