Immunizations required for students

Although the first day of school is still several weeks away, the Santa Rosa County Health Department is reminding parents that children must be up-to-date with their immunizations before entering school, and encourages parents to get their children's shots early. 

Students entering the seventh-grade must have proof that they have received the Tdap vaccine (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and children over the age of 4 who are entering pre-k or kindergarten must have completed their 4-year-old shots. Children entering Florida schools for the first time are also required to have a physical.

The health department offers vaccinations on a walk-in basis at all three clinic locations.  Immunizations are free for children through the age of 18. Parents should bring a copy of their child's shot record with them to the clinic. School and sports physicals are available by appointment. The fee for a school physical is $0-$50 on a sliding scale based on the family's income. Sports physicals cost $50. 

To make an appointment at any of the three clinics, call 850-983-5200, ext.107. For more information on immunizations, or any of the other services offered at the Santa Rosa County Health Department, visit www.healthysantarosa.com.