With the new school year just around the corner, many students and their families are busy gathering all the usual back to school supplies. Health officials said it’s important not to overlook the physicals and vaccines often required to attend school.
Recently, the Rowan County Health Department held a Back to School Bash where they provided health services and information to students and families. Despite the heat, dozens gathered to participate in the fun and games offered at the event, as well as the sense of community.
Dave Drum and his wife, Sherry, manned the grill, making hot dogs for all attendees. They were also a few of the many people representing local businesses helping to make the day a success.
“You know, there are all kinds of experts here. Environmentalists here, food experts. This is a great resource for the community, Rowan County,” said Drum.
Throughout the day, many children received health and hygiene items like water bottles and toothbrushes free of charge inside the Rowan County Health Center. Laura Harney is the nursing coordinator for the center. She said they provide several services children are required to have before they return to school.
“We do immunizations, the physicals, those are the main two things for kids getting ready for school. We also have a dental program here that goes into the schools,” said Harney.
She added immunizations and physicals given at the event were done free of charge and anybody requiring them can make an appointment with the center anytime.
Recently, there has been discourse at the federal level about the efficacy of vaccines. Notably, former Chief Medical Advisor to the President, Dr. Anthony Fauci, was submitted to a senate hearing regarding the Covid-19 pandemic. Harney said while vaccine concerns are more commonplace today, it is important to consider how dangerous any illnesses can be and how quickly they can spread.
“So, we do know that these diseases can be really detrimental to children and adults. Statistically, from what we understand the benefits far outweigh any risks involved with the vaccines,” said Harney.
Apart from the many resources provided to families, the center also participates in many health education programs. Harney said some of the best ways to keep children healthy inside of school come from teaching them healthy habits at home.
“Educating your child about the importance of handwashing, maybe not sharing items like hairbrushes, caps, or water bottles. You know, sometimes, parents forget about sunscreen. Kids will be outside playing, and we want to make sure that sunscreen is part of their daily care also,” said Harney.
Ultimately, organizers said the Back to School Bash was successful in that it helped to prepare kids to return to school and provided families with the tools and knowledge they need to lead healthy lifestyles. Sherry Drum said the sense of giving and helping the community made the day-long event worthwhile.
“The joy of giving to the community, and the kids, we love seeing all the smiles and barbecuing for them. That’s what we love to do,” said Drum.
Students return to Rowan County Schools on August 11. More information on what is required for a child to start school can be found on the Rowan County Board of Education’s website. Additional information on the types of health resources provided to families can be found on the Rowan County Health Department page of The Rowan County website.