"the People's Paths!" Cherokee News Path - Cherokee Nation Offering Immunizations

***"Back to school time means parents should check to ensure their child’s immunizations are current. The Cherokee Nation will be offering free immunizations August 11 and 13 in Muskogee."***

TAHLEQUAH, Oklahoma - The Cherokee Nation is offering free immunizations to any student, Cherokees and non-Cherokees alike, in a special immunization clinic on Tuesday, August 11 and Thursday, August 13, from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the tribe’s Three Rivers Health Center, located at 1001 S. 41 Street East in Muskogee.

“We are pleased to offer this service to all students in the community,” said Chad Smith, Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. “We know that healthy families make strong communities, and this is one way we can help all students in the area begin the new school year.”

Many students need boosters for their previous vaccinations, and with the recent outbreak of the H1N1 (swine) flu, health officials are encouraging parents even more to ensure their child’s immunizations are current.

“Childhood vaccines can protect against 16 diseases by age 18 if the proper recommendations are followed,” said Megan Plunkett, Public Health Nurse for the Cherokee Nation. “Offering childhood vaccinations as well as seasonal flu vaccinations are ways we contribute to creating healthier communities.”

There is no cost for the immunizations and they are available to any school-age child. Students do not have to be Cherokee Nation citizens or Native Americans to participate. Parents wishing to take advantage of the free immunizations need to provide the child’s shot record on the day of the visit. For more information, contact the Cherokee Nation Three Rivers Health Center Public Health Nursing program phone: 918-781-6526.