Health officials urge vaccination updates for back-to-school season

As the new school year approaches, health officials in the United States and the United Arab Emirates are urging parents to review and update their children's immunization records.

In Snohomish County, Washington, the Health Department is observing National Immunization Awareness Month. To support students, the department is hosting vaccination clinics for the Marysville, Everett, Mukilteo, and Monroe school districts. These clinics will provide school-required vaccines at no cost to children aged 18 and younger. Dr. James Lewis, the county health officer, noted that there are no changes to current vaccine recommendations in Washington or among West Coast Health Alliance members.

In the United Arab Emirates, health experts are advising families to prioritize preventive health by checking routine vaccinations and booster doses. Dr. Shereena Khamis Al Mazrouei of the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre highlighted that children are more susceptible to common infections once they return to classrooms. Beyond vaccinations, experts recommend using the period before school starts to restore healthy routines, including regular sleep schedules, physical activity, and nutritious eating habits.