Are you using school vaccines? Things that all parents need to know

Your child is back to the shaking of things at school this fall, but are they protected from preventable illnesses? Vaccines don't just keep children healthy. They put them in school and out of the hospital. Here are some things you need to know for the 2025-26 academic year:

Influenza vaccine: Still a top priority

Although the flu season may feel distant, pediatricians recommend that you take early photographs of the flu. Last year's flu season was serious 216 children died in New York State, 25.

“The flu vaccine is not perfect, but it can reduce the risk of hospitalization by about 50%,” says Jennifer Nayak, a pediatric infectious disease expert at UR Medicine's Golisano Children's Hospital. “It's a big deal when it comes to getting your kids healthy and keeping them in school.”

Covid-19: Shared decisions

What about Covid-19? Most children experience mild illnesses, but severe cases can still occur. These are cases that underlie infants and health conditions.

AAP recommends getting a Covid-19 vaccination for:

• All infants and children from 6-23 months without contraindications

• Children between 6 months and 18 years of moderate or severe immunodeficiency

• Children ages 2-18 in the following groups:

• High risk of severe Covid-19

• Living in a long-term care or other meeting setting

• He has never been vaccinated against Covid-19 before

• Living with household members at high risk of severe illness

Additionally, vaccinations are suitable for children aged 2-18 who have parents or guardians who want additional protection against Covid-19.

Families should also talk to their pediatrician. The Covid-19 vaccine may not be available in pharmacies much, but it is expected to remain covered by insurance.

RSV protection for babies

For families with infants, it is important to stay up to date with all recommended vaccinations. This includes protecting the baby from RSV, the main cause of infant hospitalization. Luckily, there is good news on this side. Pregnant mothers can receive the RSV vaccine and increase the protection given to newborns. Alternatively, babies under 8 months can receive monoclonal antibody shots to protect against RSV during their first RSV season. These options are available through your local obstetric and pediatric offices.

College Students: Don't forget about the campus vaccine

Classes are in progress and it's never too late to be protected. Living nearby, such as dormitories or Greek homes, increases the risk of illnesses such as meningococcus. Therefore, many campuses require the meningitis vaccine, and additional doses or membrane series may be recommended depending on the home and activity. Students should also be up to date with TDAP, flu and Covid-19 vaccines and help prevent outbreaks in crowded auditoriums and dorms. Also, if students have not started or completed their HPV series, college is a good time to keep up. This will help you protect yourself from some cancers later in life. Book your student health or local pharmacy and upload your vaccine records to the student portal for a healthy year on campus

Plan ahead to avoid stress

If your child has plans for a vaccine, please visit frequently now. Losing a previous dose can mean multiple shots at once. This is not interesting for children who are worried about needles. Combined vaccines can help, but staying on a schedule is the easiest way to keep your visit simple.

“Vaccinations are like seat belts,” says Jeff Weinberg, MD, pediatric infection expert. “They are small steps to provide great protection.” For additional information, the American Academy of Pediatrics has published updated vaccination recommendations. This information can be accessed through HealthyChildren.org Website