Game On for Health: Knox Public Health and MVNU Honors Program Develop Immunization Game

Knox Public Health and Mount Vernon Nazarene University’s Honors Program have teamed up to help families by providing a vaccine challenge titled “Road to 100 Challenge”. Many diseases still exist, and most are preventable. It is a game that brings awareness and educates families on how vaccines protect children. Making sure a child gets all their immunizations on schedule is an important way to protect their health.
 
The “Road to 100 Challenge” game is one more way we’re working to remove barriers and support parents and caregivers, whether it’s general education or during the back-to-school season. Vaccines are a simple step that helps prevent serious illnesses and keep our community healthy.
In Ohio, certain vaccines are required before a child can attend school, including immunizations for Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (Dtap), Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (Tdap), MMR, Hepatitis B, Polio, and Varicella (chickenpox) as outlined in the Ohio Revised Code (ORC 3313.671). Ensuring children are up to date protects them from preventable diseases and helps protect others who may be at higher risk in the public and/or school environment.
 
Even if your child has missed some doses, we can help get them caught up. We're here to support families with resources and personalized guidance.
 
How Vaccines Protect Your Child & School Requirements

Many vaccine-preventable diseases still exist today. Keeping children on schedule with recommended immunizations helps protect their health and well-being. Review the following list of vaccines to ensure your child is protected.
·        Hepatitis A: Protects the liver; two doses required.
·        Haemophilus Influenzae (Hib): Can cause serious infections such as meningitis, which may result in long-term complications. Four doses: At 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, and 12-15 months.
·        Rotavirus (RV): Protects your baby from severe diarrhea and dehydration. Two doses: At 2 months and 4 months or three doses: At 2 months, 4 months, and 6 months.
·        Prevnar 20: Protects against pneumococcus (pneumonia, blood infection, meningitis). Four doses: At 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, and 12 - 15 months.
·        Influenza: Flu shot provides protection against influenza virus. Two doses: At 6-18 months (2nd dose 28 days after 1st shot). Then yearly through adulthood.
·        COVID-19: Helps our bodies develop immunity to the virus that causes COVID-19 without us having to get the illness. Primary series: two doses: At 6 months, (2nd dose 4-8 weeks after the first shot). Booster dose Bivalent: recommended at least 8 weeks after the second primary series shot.
School Vaccine Requirements
Ohio law (ORC 3313.671) requires school-aged children to provide proof of immunization or be in the process of completing the vaccine series to remain enrolled after 14 days of school entry. The required vaccines include:
·        Dtap: Protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. Grades K–12 require four or more doses; a fifth may be required.
·        Hepatitis B: Protects the liver; three doses required.
·        MMR: Guards against measles, mumps, and rubella; two doses required.
·        Polio (IPV): Prevents paralysis; three or more doses required.
·        Varicella (VAR): Protects from chickenpox; two doses required.
·        Tdap (Grades 7–12): Booster for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis.
·        Meningococcal ACWY: Protects against meningitis; one dose for grades 7–11, two doses for grade 12 unless the first dose was given at age 16 or older.
These vaccines not only protect your child from potentially serious illnesses but also help reduce the spread of disease within schools and the broader community.
 
Protecting Students, Strengthening Communities

Immunizations not only keep children safe but also contribute to healthier schools and a stronger community. Knox Public Health encourages families to act early and avoid the last-minute rush.
 
Appointments & Questions

To make an immunization appointment at one of our Health Center locations or if you have any questions, please call 740-399-8008. Please note that appointments are required for all Health Center clinics.
 
What to Bring

Parents or guardians must accompany their child and bring the child’s immunization record and insurance card. Most insurance plans are accepted. No child will be turned away due to inability to pay.
 
To learn more about immunizations, visit https://www.cdc.gov/. For more information about Ohio’s school immunization requirements, visit the Ohio Department of Health or view the full statute at Kindergarten Through 12th Grade Vaccine Requirements | Ohio Department of Health
 
For more information about Knox Public Health or Knox County Community Health Center, visit KnoxHealth.com. To stay up to date on public health topics, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.