Health Dept. hosts Immunization Fair for Jackson-Madison Co. students

JACKSON, Tenn. — Although the school year just ended in Jackson-Madison County, health professionals are already helping parents and students prepare for the next school year.

Jackson-Madison County Regional Health Department staff already have school immunizations in mind with recent outbreaks.

“It was simple. It was quick — very convenient,” mother Deidra Staples said.

For the third year, parents and kids took advantage of the Immunization Fair in Jackson.

“We find out that a lot of infections we thought had been eradicated or went away, and now they are popping up as evidence of some of the measles cases we’ve been having around the country,” said Community Health Program Director Quill Brabham.

“And it’s good to get the kids out and let them know that shots are important,” mother Dominique Bond said.

At last year’s event, 225 children received vaccinations, so the department added a second fair to catch some students before they leave for summer vacations.

“School is out, so I wanted to take advantage of the opportunity that I didn’t have a scheduling conflict or anything like that,” Staples said.

Wednesday’s event wasn’t just about updating shot records — this carnival was filled with games and prizes for kids.

Parents who attended the event say it was a good time for them and their little patients.

Students were also able to see how alcohol affects vision and other health issues.

“They had a lot of good information, especially on tobacco, lead poisoning, things for small babies and everything,” Bond said. “It was very informative.”

If you didn’t make it out Wednesday to the Immunization Fair, the health department will host another vaccination fair July 20.