Vaccines are an important part of public health, but many people still have questions about what is available and when certain shots are needed. Whether you're a parent preparing for school enrollment or an adult wanting to stay on top of your health, understanding local immunization options can help you make informed decisions. At the Andrew County Health Department, we provide a variety of immunizations for residents of all ages. These services are designed to make it easier for families and individuals to stay up to date with recommended vaccines. What Vaccines Are Offered? The department offers immunizations for both children and adults. These may include vaccines that are required for school, as well as those that are recommended seasonally or for specific age groups. Some examples include: Childhood vaccines such as DTaP, MMR, polio, and varicella Teen and adult vaccines including Tdap, meningitis, and HPV Seasonal vaccines such as influenza (flu) and COVID-19 Other vaccines based on CDC guidelines and local availability To see which vaccines are currently being offered, or to find out if you are eligible for a specific shot, it's best to contact the department directly. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are encouraged to help reduce wait times. Who Can Receive Vaccines? Immunizations are available to all residents of Andrew County. The health department works with the Missouri Department of Health and other programs to offer vaccines for children and adults, sometimes at reduced or no cost depending on the situation. If you are uninsured or underinsured, you may still be able to receive certain vaccines through federal programs like the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program. Children entering school or daycare often need to show proof of certain vaccines. The health department can help guide families through what is required and when booster shots may be needed. Adults may also benefit from updated vaccines, especially if they are in contact with young children, have certain health conditions, or simply have not received boosters in several years. What to Expect During Your Visit Vaccines are given by trained staff in a clean and safe environment. During your visit, you may be asked to provide some background health information, especially if you are receiving multiple vaccines at once. If you have a vaccination record, it’s a good idea to bring it with you. This helps the nurse know what you’ve already received and what might still be recommended based on your age or medical history. For children, the health department staff is familiar with working with all age groups and does their best to make the process as comfortable as possible. Why Vaccinations Matter While everyone’s health needs are different, vaccines are one tool that public health agencies use to help reduce the risk of certain illnesses in the community. Keeping up with recommended vaccines may help protect not just yourself, but also those around you. It’s important to note that immunization decisions should always be discussed with your healthcare provider. The information provided by the health department is intended to help you make educated choices and stay informed about what is available in your area. How to Learn More If you are unsure whether you or your child needs a vaccine, or if you want to ask questions before scheduling an appointment, the Andrew County Health Department is available to assist. You can visit the Nurses Corner section on their website or call the office during business hours to speak with a team member. The office is located at 106 N. 5th Street in Savannah and is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. This blog is intended for educational purposes only and does not provide medical advice. For personal medical concerns, please speak with your licensed healthcare provider.