August 17, 2018 -- The Westchester County Department of Health is setting up appointments now for three free special back-to-school vaccine clinics in September, to assure children have the vaccines they need for school.

“We encourage all parents to arrange a vaccine visit with their child’s healthcare provider if they haven’t already, to be sure their children are up-to-date on their vaccines in time for the new school year,” said Health Commissioner Sherlita Amler, MD.  “Families with no insurance, ChildHealth Plus or Medicaid should call the County Health Department to schedule an appointment for vaccines at no charge.”

Call (914) 995-5800 to find out if you qualify and to make an appointment for one of the three special Back-to-School clinics:

  • Saturday, Sept. 8, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in White Plains
  • Tuesday, Sept. 11, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. in White Plains
  • Saturday, Sept. 15, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Yonkers

In addition to these special clinics, the Westchester County Department of Health provides free immunizations by appointment in its White Plains and Yonkers clinics to children and students of all ages, who are uninsured or whose insurance doesn’t cover vaccines. Vaccine visits can be scheduled on the first and third Fridays in White Plains, or on the second and fourth Fridays in Yonkers, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.  The Health Department clinics are located at 20 S. Broadway in Yonkers, and at 134 Court Street in White Plains.

Regulations for school admissions require schools to more closely scrutinize children’s immunization records, and could result in children not being allowed to start or continue in school if immunizations are not current. Ask your healthcare provider which vaccines your children need. The meningococcal vaccine is required for all 7th and 12th graders, and students also must get vaccines to protect against whooping cough, measles and mumps.

Health Navigators available through the Health Department can help families and individuals sign up for the health insurance they need. Those without a regular doctor can learn where to go for ongoing primary care. For more information, call (914) 995-6350.