Back to school: Don’t forget about the other important immunizations

SALT LAKE CITY — Many people have been focusing on the COVID-19 vaccinations since they became available near the first of the year — so much so that they have forgotten about other important immunizations.

Intermountain Healthcare Dr. Neal Davis told KSL TV’s Aley Davis that fewer students have been getting the regular immunizations during the pandemic. These regular shots protect children from pathogens such as polio, chickenpox and measles.

“If you get the vaccine now,” he said, “you can get the second dose in three weeks, and you are off to a really good start for the school year.”

Davis said that while the vaccination for COVID-19 should be a top priority, the recommended wait period for additional shots has changed. He said that you can get all the vaccinations at the same time. 

What else do you need to know about recommended vaccinations for school? View the original story at KSLTV.com. 

Read more:

• “Another step in the wrong direction,” says Cox in response to Utah reporting over 1k new cases of COVID-19 Thursday
• Pfizer data suggest third dose of Covid-19 vaccine “strongly” boosts protection against Delta variant

How To Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 Coronavirus

COVID-19 coronavirus spreads person to person, similar to the common cold and the flu. So, to prevent it from spreading:

• Wash hands frequently and thoroughly, with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds.
• Don’t touch your face.
• Wear a mask to protect yourself and others per CDC recommendations.
• Keep children and those with compromised immune systems away from someone who is coughing or sneezing (in this instance, at least six feet).
• If there is an outbreak near you, practice social distancing (stay at home, instead of going to the movies, sports events, or other activities).
• Obtain a flu shot.
• Seek out the COVID-19 vaccine.

Local resources

KSL Coronavirus Q&A 

Utah’s Coronavirus Information 

Utah State Board of Education

Utah Hospital Association

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Utah Coronavirus Information Line – 1-800-456-7707

National Resources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Commonly asked questions, World Health Organization

Cases in the United States