Vaccines are safe and effective. Vaccine-preventable diseases are at an all time low thanks to more people being vaccinated, saving lives and millions of dollars in health care costs, but this doesn’t mean the diseases have disappeared. Many viruses and bacteria are still circulating. This is why it is important for everyone to receive all of the recommended immunizations on time.
Most vaccine-preventable diseases are caused by germs called viruses or bacteria. Vaccines to help prevent these diseases generally contain weakened or dead viruses or bacteria specific to the disease.
Vaccines help your body recognize and fight these germs and protect you each time you come in contact with someone who is sick with any of these diseases.
Missouri’s immunization program is working to stop the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases by providing vaccines to children and adolescents who cannot pay for them through the Vaccines for Children Program; educating health care professionals, medical providers and the public on the importance of vaccinations; and ensuring that children who are in child care and school are adequately immunized against diseases that are harmful and sometimes deadly.
2021-2022 School Year Requirements