Back to school shopping list: binders, lunchbox, pencils, erasers, paper… immunizations and physicals? That’s right!

August is here, which means the school year is also on its way. We know that right now your focus is probably on soaking up as much sun as possible, swimming, and eating watermelon, but soon parents and kids alike will have to gear up for fall schedules. Let us help you make the transition by giving you some tips on getting a couple important things that you may not think about out of the way before school starts. And we don’t mean finding the perfect backpack, we’re talking about your child’s health to-do list.

First Thing’s First: Back to School Sports Physicals

If your child is in any way active, you’ll want to make an appointment to get them in for a routine physical. Most school sports require a physical every year, so wouldn’t it be easy to just get it out of the way before your child’s sport even begins?

We know it’s hard to plan ahead sometimes, but trust us, you’ll thank yourself when spring comes and your kiddo’s baseball coach comes looking for a recent physical.

You may have some questions regarding specific rules and regulations of physicals, so we’ve compiled some answers:

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. When does my child need to begin getting physicals in the state of Oregon?
A. According to OregonLaws.org, once a child reaches 7th grade, he or she will need to have regular physicals to participate in sports. This also goes for all kids from 7th-12th grades.

Q. How often does my child need a physical?
A. In the state of Oregon, once every two years.

Q. Who can give a physical examination?
A. Traditional or licensed naturopathic physician, physician’s assistant, nurse practitioner, or a chiropractic physician with clinical training.

Q. Where should I go?
A. Looking to get a sports physical in Creswell? Camas Swale Medical Clinic is having a special starting in August for back-to-school physicals. Come in soon to get a great rate for your child’s physical.

So you get to check this box off your list; what’s next? Immunizations.

sports physical creswell

Back to School Shots

Immunizations are extremely important to get for your child, and what’s a better time to get them out of the way than before school even starts? It’ll be so much easier to avoid the hassle of getting reminders from school and last minute appointments. Plus, August is National Immunization Month. It seems fitting, right before school, doesn’t it?

If you’re wondering what shots your child may need, look no further! See below for a handy general guide by grade. Full disclosure, these are general recommendations and we are aware not everyone will be on the same schedule. If you have questions about your child’s vaccinations, contact your medical provider.

18 months or older entering Preschool, Childcare, or Headstart:

  • 4 Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis (DTaP)
  • 3 Polio 1 Varicella (chickenpox)
  • 1 Measles/Mumps/Rubella (MMR)
  • 3 Hepatitis B
  • 2 Hepatitis A
  • 3 or 4 Hib

Kindergarten or Grades 1-6:

  • 5 Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis (DTaP)
  • 4 Polio
  • 1 Varicella (chickenpox)
  • 2 MMR or 2 Measles, 1 Mumps, 1 Rubella
  • 3 Hepatitis B
  • 2 Hepatitis A

Grades 7-11:

  • 5 Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis (DTaP)
  • 1 Tdap
  • 4 Polio
  • 1 Varicella (chickenpox)
  • 2 MMR or 2 Measles, 1 Mumps, 1 Rubella
  • 3 Hepatitis B
  • 2 Hepatitis A

Grade 12:

  • 5 Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis (DTaP)
  • 1 Tdap
  • 4 Polio
  • 1 Varicella (chickenpox)
  • 2 MMR or 2 Measles, 1 Mumps, 1 Rubella
  • 3 Hepatitis B

For a more comprehensive, visual graph of vaccination guidelines, take a look here.

If you need immunizations or a sports physical in Creswell, Camas Swale can do both at the same time. We are happy to offer a program to help qualifying families pay for their children’s shots. Parents, if you have concerns or questions regarding immunizations, we would be happy to schedule an appointment to talk to you.