Back-to-School Immunizations
Make Sure Your Child is Protected
As the school year approaches, now is the perfect time to schedule your child’s vaccines. Whether your child is starting kindergarten, moving into middle school, or preparing for college, vaccinations help keep them and those around themsafe.
🛡️ Texas law requires certain vaccines for students in grades K–12. These protect children from serious diseases like measles, whooping cough, and polio.
👉 See required vaccines by grade level:
Texas Minimum State Vaccine Requirements | Texas DSHS
What Is Immunization?
Immunization uses vaccines to help your child’s body fight off harmful diseases before they get sick. It’s a safe, proven way to protect your family and community.
How It Works:
- A vaccine introduces a weakened virus or bacteria.
- The immune system learns how to fight it.
- If your child is exposed later, their body is ready to respond.
Thanks to vaccines, more children reach their first birthday than ever before!
Required & Recommended Childhood Vaccines
Available through the Texas Vaccines for Children (TVFC) program for eligible children (ages 6 months to 18 years):
- COVID-19
- DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis)
- Polio (IPV)
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
- Varicella (Chickenpox)
- Hepatitis A & B
- Hib
- HPV (ages 9+)
- Meningococcal Conjugate (MCV4) & Meningitis B
- Flu (seasonal)
- RSV (seasonal, includes maternal vaccine)
- Pneumococcal
- Rotavirus
- Mpox (as needed)
Spotlight on HPV Vaccine
Protect Your Child Against Certain Cancers
The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine protects against several types of cancer, including cervical, throat, and other reproductive cancers in both females and males.
What Is HPV?
HPV is a very common virus. Nearly everyone will be exposed at some point, but not everyone will show symptoms. In some cases, the virus can lead to cancer later in life.
Who Should Get the HPV Vaccine?
- Recommended for all children ages 11–12 (can start as early as age 9)
- Two doses are needed if started before age 15
- Three doses are needed if started at age 15 or older
- It’s available through the Texas Vaccines for Children (TVFC) program for eligible children up to age 18
Why It Matters:
- The vaccine is most effective when given before exposure to the virus (before becoming sexually active)
- It’s a safe, proven way to prevent several HPV-related cancers
🎯 HPV vaccination = cancer prevention.
Who Qualifies for Free or Low-Cost Vaccines?
Through the Texas Vaccines for Children (TVFC) program, your child may qualify if they are:
✅ Uninsured
✅ Underinsured (private insurance that doesn’t cover vaccines or only some)
✅ On Medicaid or CHIP
✅ Native American or Alaskan Native
💡 Underinsured includes private insurance with a vaccine cap or limited coverage. Children are eligible for vaccines not covered by their plan.
Keep Track with ImmTrac2
Texas’s immunization registry keeps a secure, lifelong record of your child’s vaccines.
✅ Share records with schools and doctors
✅ No more lost shot records
📌 Just sign a consent form at any clinic to enroll
Myths vs. Facts
Myth | Fact |
Vaccines cause autism. | They don’t. Studies show no link. |
Natural immunity is better. | Vaccines protect without the risk of serious illness. |
Too many shots overwhelm the immune system. | Kids handle more daily from food and play. |
We don’t need vaccines anymore. | Outbreaks still happen when vaccine rates drop. |
Need Shot Records? Visit our clinics
Cameron County Public Health
Clinics
Mary P. Lucio Health Center
Brownsville, Texas 78521
(956) 574-8745
San Benito Public Health Clinic
San Benito, Texas 78586
(956) 361-8244
Harlingen Public Health Center
Harlingen, Texas 78550
(956) 423-3516
Parent FAQs
Q: Why so many vaccines?
A: Each one protects against a different disease. Some need multiple doses.
Q: What if I miss an appointment?
A: Your child can catch up! Ask your provider for a schedule.
Q: Are vaccines safe for babies?
A: Yes. They’re tested and monitored for safety.
Q: Can I choose which vaccines?
A: Some are required by law. Others may be recommended by your provider.