Childhood Vaccinations

Some people call them immunizations. Others call them vaccinations, and others inoculations. Some simply call them shots. Immunizations are one of your child’s best weapons against a number of serious diseases. Many diseases such as polio, measles, mumps, whooping cough, diphtheria, and tetanus are rarely seen in the United States since immunization rates have increased. By the time a child reaches 2 years of age he should have received about 20 shots. When a child enters school in Pennsylvania he should have had the following vaccines:

• 4 doses of tetanus (1 dose on or after the 4th birthday)
• 4 doses of diphtheria (1 dose on or after the 4th birthday)
• 3 doses of polio
• 1 dose of mumps
• 2 dose of measles
• 1 dose of rubella (German measles)
• 3 doses of hepatitis B
• 1 dose of varicella (chickenpox) vaccine or history of disease

Immunizations are available through the Bethlehem Health Bureau for children who have no insurance or are underinsured. Native Americans and Alaskan Eskimos are also eligible.

Vaccines are given free through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program, a program of the PA Department of Health. Four clinics are held monthly. If your child is in need of immunizations please call us for an appointment at 610-865-7087.

IMMUNIZATION CLINIC LOCATION AND HOURS:

Fowler Family Center @ Donegan Elementary School, 1210 East Fourth Street, Bethlehem, PA
1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month: 10am--12pm
2nd and 4th Thursday of every month: 4pm--6pm