Immunizations
Where can I get reliable information about vaccines?
View Vaccine Information Statements (VIS forms) for each vaccine
What shots should I receive before traveling outside of the United States and are there any recent travel notices available for each country?
To provide for adequate time to build immunity and because several of the commonly recommended shots must be administered in a series over a several month time span, please begin shots recommended for travel a minimum of 6 months before departure.
If wanting travel vaccinations from Jackson County Health Department, especially if the vaccine is not on the recommended vaccine schedule for adults in the United States, please call JCHD to ensure that we carry the vaccine. For example, if your travel requires you to be vaccinated for Yellow Fever, typhoid, or Japanese encephalitis, these vaccines are not carried by JCHD but are available at SIUC - Student Health Center in Carbondale.
Can my child be vaccinated if not feeling well?
Even if your child has a low grade fever, cold or runny nose, upset stomach, ear infection, or is taking antibiotics, he or she can still be immunized safely. There is no greater risk of harmful events when immunizations are given during a minor illness.
However, if a fever or other symptoms suggest a moderate or serious illness, your child should not be vaccinated until the symptoms improve.
What shots do schools and daycares require?
IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS FOR ILLINOIS!
1 dose of meningococcal vaccine (6th or 7th grade)
2 doses of meningococcal vaccine (12th grade)
- Please note that Tdap is different than the DTaP vaccine given to children under age 7. Tdap is now recommended as a single booster dose for children over age 11 and adults, or children age 7-10 who are not fully immunized against pertussis (whooping cough).
You can visit the Department of Public Health for more information.
How can I comfort my child before and after a shot?
