Lunchbox, check. Backpack, check. New clothes, check. Is something missing from your child’s back-to-school list? If he or she hasn’t had the most current set of immunizations, don’t even think about walking them through the schoolhouse door.

The Shelby County Health Department makes it easy for parents to keep their kids-up-to-date by offering back-to-school shots in July and August on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday on a walk-in basis from 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Parents can also get their children immunized by appointment anytime Monday-Friday.

“Typically shots are given at different ages,” said Angela Pontius, the clinic supervisor.

The two main rounds of shots school-aged children must receive are the “Blue Slip” and “T-dap” immunizations.

Schools require the “Blue Slip” shot prior to children’s beginning kindergarten. This shot can be given anytime between the ages of 4 and 6.

“In the state of Alabama, you must have a blue slip, unless you have a religious exemption,” Pontius said. “But of course we prefer everyone to be vaccinated.”

A “T-dap” shot is required by a new state law for 11-year-old children and/or anyone entering sixth grade. The immunization protects against several diseases including diphtheria.

“It’s just for their protection and health,” Pontius said. “Children need to be up-to-date.”

Shots cost $5 per immunization.

For further information, or to make an appointment, call 664-2470.