Getting vaccinated is easy to do!

The Texas Vaccines for Children program provides vaccines at no charge to TVFC providers, and TVFC providers may charge a fee to administer the vaccination. Under TVFC, the following groups of children (birth to 18 years of age) are eligible: uninsured or underinsured children, children who are covered by CHIP, children who are of Native American or Native Alaskan heritage, and children on Medicaid.

Pharmacies, health care providers and health care clinics are all available to assist in getting shots up to date. The importance of up-todate vaccinations is not only important for schools. Child care facilities, athletic teams and summer camps also may need proof of immunization records.

Keeping track of your child’s immunizations can be done with ImmTrac, a no-cost service offered by the Texas Department of State Health Services. The service is confidential and secure. Parents also are recommended to bring their immunization cards to every visit to their health care provider.

Staying current with each visit is important. Ask your pediatrician about registering your child. Details on getting registered are available at www.dshs.texas.gov/immunize/immtrac.

If you have questions regarding exclusions, information begins with Chapter §97.62 of the Texas Administrative Code, which describes the conditions under which individuals can seek exemptions from Texas immunization requirements.

Exclusions from compliance are allowable on an individual basis for medical contraindications, reasons of conscience, including a religious belief, and active duty with the armed forces of the United States.

The form to request an exemption can be found on the Department of State Health Services website.