Free immunization events in Tampa Bay area

TAMPA, Fla. - In just a matter of weeks, kids throughout Tampa Bay will be back in class. Now is the time to make sure your kids are up to date on their immunizations; if not, they could be held out of class. There are a number of free locations where you can take your student to get it all sorted out.

 

Doctors say it's all about keeping kids safe and healthy. Of course not many kids are fans of those back to school shots, but better to be safe than sorry. Required vaccines are available at most private doctors offices and at county health departments. For kids in grades K through 12, they have to be up to date on diphtheria, measles and chicken pox immunizations.

The Department of Health provides those shots free of charge through the Vaccines for Children program. 

 

Here are a few of the free events are lined up in several local communities.

 

Pinellas – Free immunizations offered at no cost Monday-Thursdays until August 9 at the following locations:

Citrus County – Free immunizations are offered in the following locations:

Manatee – Free immunizations are available for eligible children, birth - 18 years of age, enrolled in elementary, middle or high school. New and transferring students, Kindergarten students, and those in the seventh grade will need to provide proof of immunizations prior to school enrollment. Returning students should have already completed the required vaccine series. DOH-Manatee offers free back-to-school vaccinations Monday through Friday, 7:30 - 4:30 pm.  Appointments are encouraged, and walk-ins are always welcome. To schedule an appointment, call (941) 748-0747, extension 1269.

 

Hillsborough – Free immunizations offered at Back-to-School Fairs.

 

Pasco –

Polk – Free immunizations are offered at these Polk County locations. It’s preferred for a parent to call ahead and make an appointment.

 

Haines City

 

Lakeland 

 

Lake Wales

 

Sarasota – Immunizations are available at DOH-Sarasota locations: