However, no child will be vaccinated unless they are accompanied by a parent or an adult over the age of 18 designated by the parent to be present. In addition, the public health unit at 180 Marine St., also holds immunization clinics daily, no appointment necessary. However, on Monday, the health unit gives the vaccine until 6 p.m. After 5 p.m., clients must enter through the door at the WIC entrance at the rear north end of the building. While appointments are not required, parents should call ahead so that child's records from the main clinic will be available, if they have had a vaccine through the health department before. Parents bringing their children for immunizations must also provide their previous immunization records at that time.
All vaccinations given through the health department are free of charge.
Jean Carver, public information officer for the county health department, said exemptions from vaccines for medical or religious reasons are available. Children who are allergic to eggs should not take the vaccine, she said. However, a religious exemption for the hepatitis B vaccine requires that the parents meet with Dr. James Walker, the county's health director. Walker will provide them with information about the risks and consequences of not having been vaccinated. Carver said those who want this exemption must call make an appointment to meet with Walker.