The Tennessee Department of Health says this is a good time for parents to make sure their children are ready to return to school with up-to-date immunizations.

‘’We want all children to be safe, healthy, and ready to learn in the classroom as we get ready for another school year,” Tennessee Health Commissioner Ralph Alvarado said. “Just like school supplies and proper school attire, we know back-to-school immunizations are an important part of getting ready for another school year.”

Kindergarteners and other children enrolling in a Tennessee school for the first time must provide schools with a complete, official Tennessee Immunization Certificate before classes begin. The certificate must be signed by a qualified healthcare provider or verified by the state’s Immunization Information System.

All current students entering seventh grade are required to give the school a limited official Tennessee Immunization Certificate showing they have had a booster shot for tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis, also called a TDAP booster.

Immunization requirements for college entry vary by institution, but teens who have had all recommended vaccines, including their meningitis booster after they turn 16, will meet all state-run colleges’ requirements.

Immunizations are available from most healthcare providers across the state, including the Franklin County Health Department. The complete list of Tennessee child-care and school-immunization requirements can be found on the TDH’s website at tn.gov/health/cedep/immunization-program/ip/vfc.