Children's Immunizations

Introduction

Vaccines are the best way to protect the health of our children. Before vaccines, many children died from diseases like measles, pertussis (whooping cough), and Haemophilus influenzae. Vaccines now prevent those diseases and many others.

The viruses and bacteria that cause these diseases still exist. Some of these diseases make children very sick. Some are deadly, especially for young children. That’s why it’s important that every child gets the vaccines they need on time.

No matter the age of your children, vaccines are one of the best ways you can protect them.


Services Provided

Children's Immunizations

Douglas County Public Health provides vaccinations to children who meet certain eligibility criteria. These vaccinations are provided through the federal Vaccines for Children (VFC) program at no cost.

Who is eligible for VFC

Children ages 18 years and younger can get vaccines for free or at a lower cost. Your child is eligible if they:

  • Are enrolled or eligible for Medicaid.
  • Are American Indian or Alaska Native.
  • Don’t have health insurance. Or,
  • Have health insurance that doesn’t pay for all vaccines.

For more information about the VFC program:

Handout: Information for Parents about the VFC Program (PDF) 

Video: Vaccines for Children Program (ASL)

What vaccines does your child need? The CDC’s Child and Adolescent Vaccine Assessment Tool will help you learn more about it. Vaccine Assessment Tool

Contact the Health Department at 715-395-1304 with any questions or to schedule an appointment.

School and Daycare Immunization Requirements

In order to protect the health of the public, the State of Wisconsin requires children enrolled in schools and daycares to have received certain vaccines.  For more information, please visit the Wisconsin Department of Health Services website.

Wisconsin Immunization Registry

Parents can now track their child's immunization status by accessing the statewide Wisconsin Immunization Registry (WIR).

More Information
Parents are constantly concerned about protecting the health of their children.  While vaccines can help prevent your children from many deadly diseases, some parents also have concerns about vaccines.

If you have concerns about vaccines, please take a moment to review the following resources and videos: