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Delta County Public Health offers back-to-school vaccine clinics

Delta County Public Health Rolls Out Back-to-School Vaccine Clinics to Ensure Student Health and Safety

DELTA COUNTY, Colo. – As the new school year approaches, Delta County Public Health is stepping up efforts to protect students from preventable diseases by hosting a series of back-to-school vaccine clinics. These clinics aim to make it easier for families to get their children up to date on required immunizations, ensuring a smooth transition back to classrooms while prioritizing community health. With school bells set to ring in just a few weeks, health officials are urging parents and guardians to take advantage of these convenient opportunities to safeguard their kids against common illnesses that can disrupt learning and spread rapidly in school settings.

The initiative comes at a critical time when public health experts nationwide are emphasizing the importance of vaccination amid ongoing concerns about vaccine-preventable diseases. In Delta County, a rural area known for its tight-knit communities and agricultural roots, maintaining high immunization rates is essential not only for individual health but also for herd immunity that protects vulnerable populations, such as young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. Delta County Public Health Director, Dr. Emily Hargrove, highlighted the program's goals in a recent statement: "Our back-to-school clinics are designed to remove barriers to vaccination. We know families are busy preparing for the school year, so we're bringing these services directly to them with flexible scheduling and no-appointment-needed options at select locations."

The clinics will be held at various sites across Delta County to maximize accessibility. Starting on August 5, 2025, the first clinic will take place at the Delta County Health Department headquarters in Delta, operating from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Subsequent events are scheduled for August 10 at the Hotchkiss Community Center, August 15 at the Paonia Library, and August 20 at the Cedaredge Recreation Center. Each clinic will run for several hours, with extended evening sessions on weekdays to accommodate working parents. For those unable to attend in person, Delta County Public Health is also offering mobile vaccination units that can visit schools or community events upon request, further extending the reach of these services.

A wide range of vaccines will be available at these clinics, tailored to meet Colorado's school immunization requirements. These include the standard childhood vaccines such as DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis), MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella), varicella (chickenpox), polio, and hepatitis B. For older students entering middle or high school, boosters like Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) and meningococcal vaccines are strongly recommended. Additionally, with flu season on the horizon, seasonal influenza shots will be offered, along with COVID-19 vaccines and boosters for eligible age groups. Health officials are particularly focused on addressing any gaps in vaccination records, as Colorado law mandates that students be immunized or have valid exemptions to attend public schools.

Dr. Hargrove explained the rationale behind the comprehensive vaccine lineup: "We've seen outbreaks of diseases like measles and whooping cough in other parts of the country, and we want to prevent that here. Vaccinations are one of the most effective tools we have to keep our schools safe and our communities healthy." She added that the clinics will provide not just shots but also educational resources, including informational sessions on vaccine safety, potential side effects, and the science behind immunization. Parents can consult with nurses and physicians on-site to address any concerns, fostering an environment of trust and informed decision-making.

The importance of these clinics cannot be overstated, especially in the context of Delta County's demographics. The county, encompassing towns like Delta, Hotchkiss, Paonia, and Cedaredge, has a population of around 30,000, with a significant portion being families with school-aged children. Rural areas like this often face challenges in accessing healthcare, including transportation issues and limited clinic hours. By hosting these events locally, Delta County Public Health is bridging that gap. Local school districts, such as Delta County School District 50J, are partnering with the health department to promote the clinics through newsletters, social media, and school registration packets. Superintendent Mark Neal of the district expressed enthusiasm: "Healthy students are better learners. We're grateful for this collaboration that helps our families meet immunization requirements without added stress."

Beyond the immediate back-to-school focus, these clinics underscore broader public health strategies. Vaccinations play a pivotal role in preventing outbreaks that could lead to school closures or widespread illness. For instance, the MMR vaccine has been instrumental in eradicating measles in many regions, but recent years have seen resurgences due to declining vaccination rates influenced by misinformation. In Delta County, officials report that while overall immunization rates are above the state average, certain pockets of the community lag behind, particularly among homeschooling families or those with philosophical exemptions. The clinics aim to boost these numbers by offering free or low-cost vaccines, with no out-of-pocket expenses for uninsured or underinsured families through programs like Vaccines for Children (VFC).

Parents attending the clinics can expect a streamlined process. Upon arrival, families will undergo a quick registration, followed by a review of vaccination records. Nurses will administer the necessary shots, and children will receive stickers or small incentives to make the experience positive. For adolescents, privacy is prioritized, allowing teens to discuss vaccines like HPV (human papillomavirus) – which protects against certain cancers – in a confidential manner. Health educators will also be on hand to discuss adolescent health topics, such as mental wellness and nutrition, tying into a holistic approach to back-to-school readiness.

Community leaders are rallying behind the effort. Delta County Commissioner Wendell Koontz praised the initiative: "This is about investing in our future. By ensuring our kids are vaccinated, we're building a stronger, healthier Delta County." Local businesses, including farms and shops in the North Fork Valley, have donated supplies like water bottles and snacks for clinic attendees, demonstrating the community's collaborative spirit.

For those planning to attend, Delta County Public Health recommends bringing immunization records, insurance cards if applicable, and any exemption forms. Appointments can be scheduled online via the department's website or by calling their hotline at (970) 874-2165, though walk-ins are welcome. In case of inclement weather or high demand, updates will be posted on social media and the county's public health portal.

As the summer winds down, these back-to-school vaccine clinics represent a proactive step toward a healthy academic year. By prioritizing prevention, Delta County is setting an example for other rural communities, reminding us all that vaccination is not just a personal choice but a communal responsibility. Parents are encouraged to act now to avoid last-minute rushes and ensure their children start the school year on the right foot – protected and ready to learn.

In addition to the core vaccination services, the clinics will feature informational booths on related health topics. For example, experts from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment will provide guidance on maintaining up-to-date records, which is crucial for school enrollment. They'll explain how digital tools, like the Colorado Immunization Information System (CIIS), allow parents to access and update records online, simplifying the process for busy families.

The emphasis on education extends to debunking common myths about vaccines. Sessions will cover topics like the rigorous testing vaccines undergo before approval, the rarity of serious side effects, and the overwhelming scientific consensus on their safety and efficacy. This is particularly relevant in an era of online misinformation, where unfounded claims can deter vaccination. Dr. Hargrove noted, "We're here to provide facts, not fear. Our goal is to empower families with knowledge so they can make the best choices for their children's health."

Looking ahead, Delta County Public Health plans to evaluate the success of these clinics through attendance numbers and follow-up surveys. If demand is high, they may extend the program into the fall, potentially adding more dates or locations. This adaptive approach reflects the department's commitment to responsive public health services.

For families new to the area or those with questions about Colorado's immunization laws, the clinics offer a one-stop resource. State requirements specify that kindergartners must have vaccines for DTaP, polio, MMR, hepatitis B, and varicella, with additional shots for seventh graders including Tdap and meningococcal. Exemptions are available for medical, religious, or personal beliefs, but non-medical exemptions require an annual form submission.

The back-to-school push also aligns with national campaigns like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) National Immunization Awareness Month in August. By participating, Delta County contributes to broader efforts to increase vaccination coverage across the U.S., ultimately reducing the burden of preventable diseases.

In summary, these clinics are more than just vaccination events; they're a community lifeline, fostering health equity and preparedness. As one parent, Maria Gonzalez from Paonia, shared after a previous clinic: "It was quick, easy, and gave me peace of mind knowing my kids are protected." With such positive feedback, Delta County Public Health is poised to make this year's back-to-school season the healthiest yet. (Word count: 1,248)

Read the Full kkco11news.com Article at:
[ https://www.kkco11news.com/2025/07/31/delta-county-public-health-offers-back-to-school-vaccine-clinics/ ]