As summer draws to a close, families across El Paso prepare for the new school year. However, amidst the excitement, there's an essential task that must not be overlooked: ensuring children are up to date with their vaccinations. Immunize El Paso’s Vax2School initiative has been a game-changer in making sure this critical aspect of back-to-school readiness is accessible and convenient for all families.
Launched in response to the growing need for accessible immunization services, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Vax2School program has significantly expanded its reach. In 2020 alone, the initiative saw a 30% increase in the number of children immunized compared to previous years. The program was pivotal in administering over 12,000 vaccines during the back-to-school period, a crucial effort in protecting community health.
One particularly impactful story from the Vax2School campaign is that of the Garcia family. With four school-aged children and limited access to healthcare services, Mrs. Garcia was anxious about getting her kids vaccinated in time for the new school year. Immunize El Paso’s Vax2School program made it possible for her children to receive all their required immunizations at a convenient local clinic, alleviating her concerns and ensuring her kids were ready for school. This family's experience is a powerful example of how the Vax2School initiative removes barriers to healthcare access.
The program operates multiple clinics across the city, with extended hours and weekend availability to accommodate working parents. During the 2021-2022 school year, Immunize El Paso collaborated with local school districts to establish surge clinics in high-traffic areas, further increasing accessibility. These efforts were instrumental in reaching over 15,000 students, ensuring they were protected against vaccine-preventable diseases.
Immunize El Paso's Director, Danny Acosta, emphasized the importance of the program: "Multiple studies have shown a significant decline in childhood immunizations over the past year, and our crews are prepared to support the increased need. We want to ensure every child is protected and afforded an opportunity to return to school in the safest manner possible."
In addition to routine childhood vaccinations, the Vax2School program also provided COVID-19 vaccines for eligible children aged 12 and older. This comprehensive approach ensured that students were safeguarded against a range of illnesses, contributing to a healthier school environment and community.
For more information about the Vax2School initiative or to schedule a vaccination appointment, families can call Immunize El Paso at 915-533-3414 or visit www.immunizeelpaso.org. The Vax2School program, along with other initiatives by Immunize El Paso, continues to make a significant impact on public health, demonstrating the organization's commitment to ensuring every child in El Paso has the opportunity to thrive.
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