The Kansas City Health Department is hosting a vaccination clinic on Saturday, Aug. 20, where required back-to-school vaccinations will be provided along with end-of-summer fun. The event takes place from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. at 2400 Troost Ave.

“Vaccinations are so important to keep kids protected from viruses and diseases. This year, along with vaccinations and Band-Aids, we also want to make sure families have a little fun when they walk through our doors,” said Dr. Marvia Jones, director of health.

In addition to vaccinations, here’s what’s planned:

• Face-painting
• School supply distribution
• Ruby Jean’s Juice for children who receive a vaccination
• A cheerful mascot to greet children and take photos
• Area vendors will provide treats & stickers
• Ice cream truck outside for parents/caregivers to purchase a treat

“We hope to vaccinate 150 to 200 children, so the wait time could be a challenge for some families. Hopefully these activities will help ease any frustration that comes along with that,” said Jones.

New kindergartners need five vaccinations before they enter school:

• Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR)
• Varicella (chickenpox)
• Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (DTap)
• Polio
• Hepatitis B

Students 11 to 12-years old need three booster immunizations:

• Tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough) booster (Tdap)
• Meningococcal (MCV) to prevent meningitis,
• HPV (recommended)

Teens 16 & over in high school need:

• Meningococcal Booster (MCV4)
• Meningococcal B (recommended)

Additionally, the health department will provide free lead testing for children. Lead is dangerous for children’s development and can be found in paint chips, paint dust and in the dirt around homes built before 1978.

“If the test comes back high for lead, the health department has case managers who can help children get the treatment they need,” said Amy Roberts, program manager for Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention and Healthy Homes.

A limited number of sports physicals will also be offered for 11 to 18-year-olds on a first come-first served basis through a partnership with medical school residents from the University of Missouri-Kansas City.
The Sexual Health Clinic will be open for teens and adults on the second floor.

Finally, the health department has extended hours every Tuesday and Wednesday through Aug. 31 for appointments or check-ins by 6:15 p.m.

Childhood immunizations are free for those who qualify under the Federal Vaccine for Children program. Non-Kansas City residents who qualify can attend for a fee of $10 for the first child seen and $5 for each additional child in the same family. 

Please bring the following:

• Picture ID                  
• Insurance or Medicaid cards                      
• Vaccination records
• School letters
• Written consent (If you are not the parent or guardian)

Media inquiries should be directed to Michelle Pekarsky, 816-719-3610 (cell).