Dear Parents/ Guardians:
We are delighted to inform you about the vaccination collaboration between The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) and Pulaski County Public Schools. Immunization rates have dropped in our country and in Pulaski County. We often hear that parents find it difficult to arrange for children to receive immunizations with a physician or local health department. Because we believe in prevention and community service, we will offer the influenza (Flu) vaccine to all our students this year. We will plan to offer the vaccine clinic during October.
"Flu" is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat and lungs. It is spread mainly from person to person by droplets that are released in the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, visits to doctor’s offices, and missed school and may make symptoms less severe.
There will be no charge to parents of children who choose to receive the flu vaccine; however, the Pulaski Health Department will collect your insurance information and bill for the cost of the vaccine. Any cost not covered by your insurance will not be billed to parents.
In order to provide vaccination to your child, you will need to complete, sign, and return the attached Student Flu Vaccination Consent form to your child's school nurse by September 22, 2023. If a completed and signed consent form is not returned to the school, your child will not be given the vaccination.
You are under no obligation to participate. This is simply a service to the Parents/Guardians of our students to alleviate the hardship associated with trying to schedule a doctor's visit, securing transportation, and potentially missing work in order to get your child's flu vaccination. When more people get vaccinated against the flu, less flu illness can spread throughout our community.
Please remember that your child does not have to participate in this vaccination opportunity and it does not eliminate the need for your child to receive regular check-ups with your healthcare provider.
