Proof of vaccine requirements and reputable sources of information  

SARASOTA COUNTY — The school year is right around the corner. As you prepare your “to do” list, the Florida Department of Health in Sarasota County (DOH-Sarasota) reminds parents updated vaccines are required for kindergarten and 7th grade in all Florida schools. A completed DH 680 form is required for registration in Sarasota County public schools. The form is available through your child’s pediatrician and at DOH-Sarasota.

Vaccine-preventable diseases like whooping cough, measles and meningitis can spread quickly in school settings. Therefore, students without required immunizations will be sent home from public schools on the first day of school. In addition, they will not be able to ride the bus or participate in sports, band or other extracurricular activities until the school has the DH 680 form showing they have received the required immunizations Health officials say the meningococcal meningitis vaccine, Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine, which protects against many types of cancer, and the Hepatitis A vaccine are recommended vaccines for adolescents. These can be given when your 7th grader gets the required Tdap vaccine which protects against Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis or whooping cough.

“Students who may be anxious about getting a shot should know the sting lasts only a moment. The consequences of not fully vaccinating your child can be devastating and last a lifetime,” says DOH-Sarasota Immunization Program Manager Donna Keith.                                                               

Local health officials ask as parents weigh the decision to fully vaccinate their children they review scientific information from reputable sources such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These sources address parent concerns about vaccines to autism connection and other health issues. Your health care provider can also share scientifically accurate and up-to-date information about vaccines with you.                                                                                                                      

Below is resource information for parents. Visit our website for hours, locations and facts about vaccines.

Immunizations are available at DOH-Sarasota locations:

William L. Little Health and Human Services Center
Call for Hours 941-861-2784
2200 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota

North Port Health Center
Call for Hours 941-861-3864 
6950 Outreach Way, North Port                         

• No cost for children through age 18

• Walk in (no appointment needed)

• Parent/Guardian must accompany child

• Bring shot records and insurance card
   if your plan covers immunizations

About the Florida Department of Health
The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts. Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.

Sarasota County prohibits discrimination in all services, programs or activities.  View the complete policy at www.scgov.net/ADA/Pages/default.aspx