Back-to-School: Vaccines 101

Summer spells out travel plans, hot weather (at least here in Arizona), and immunization updates!

So, we’ve put together a guide for all things immunization and vaccine-related. 

Mind Your P’s, Q’s, and VISs
Breaks from school equal prime time for those yearly doctor’s appointments. Prepare for an influx of immunization appointments with up-to-date VISs (Vaccine Information Statements)


Get Back to Basics 
Make sure your practice is fully stocked with the proper vaccines and other vaccine essentials. 
Here’s what you’ll need in your standard vaccine kit: 

  • gloves
  • thermometers & probe covers
  • ear specula
  • tongue depressors
  • syringes 
  • needles (of various sizes)
  • alcohol wipes
  • sterile gauze pads
  • bandages***
  • the vaccines themselves 
  • epinephrine (in case of emergency)

***With the increase of immunization appointments there comes the need for more kid-themed products. Character bandages can make a big difference to those little humans. Stop those tears right in their tracks. Avengers? Emojis? Neon? We’ve got you covered (literally). Contact us here with your request!

From Albania to Zimbabwe 
Have some upcoming travel plans? The CDC has a list of destination-specific immunizations including alerts for any current or recent outbreaks within each region.

Social Studies 

The Vaccine for Children Program offers free vaccines for children under 19 years of age in low-income households or without insurance.  Not a current provider but want to be? Check out the benefits of becoming one here!

Extra Credit  
The CDC offers Continuing Education credits for courses regarding proper storage and handling of vaccines. Take the online modules (You Call the Shots) to qualify for CE credits. Courses are updated regularly to ensure all information is current and in line with any regulatory changes. 

Cold-Chain Challenges
We know vaccines must be kept within a certain temperature range, particularly in regards to transportation, and that has proved problematic for developing countries without modernized refrigeration systems. 
But, researchers may have found a simple solution: sugary gel. 

Malaria Atlas Project 
New research chronicles malaria’s spread and decline from the years 2000-2017 using high-resolution maps. This is the first time a study has focused on a span of years versus an individual year. The study also concentrates on the areas where malaria outreach has succeeded and conversely in the areas where outreach has failed in an attempt to refine outreach efforts. 

Other Study Materials: Checklists, Charts, and Handouts

Q & A’s: Diseases & Vaccines

Screening Checklist (Contraindications): Children & Teens

Screening Checklist (Contraindications): Adults

Timeline: When Do Children & Teens Need Vaccines

Temperature Logs