Each summer, parents purchase numerous school supplies to prepare their children for the new school year. However, children need more than notebooks and backpacks to succeed in school. Parents should add a visit to the doctor to their children’s back-to-school checklist.

The Mississippi State Department of Health issued a press release reminding parents to get their child the immunizations required by law before they enter public or private school, daycare or head start.

Mississippi has one of the strictest immunization laws in the United States, which is also why the state has one of the highest vaccination rates for children.

While some argue the laws are too strict, there’s no evidence proving vaccinations have an adverse effect on children. These vaccinations protect children from contracting preventable diseases like measles, polio, chickenpox and whooping cough.

August is National Immunization Awareness Month, which aims to spread awareness about the importance of vaccinations and reminds communities nationwide to stay up-to-date on their shots no matter their age.

While everyone needs to ensure they receive the recommended vaccinations, children need to especially because they’re around other children during school hours and are still developing and growing.

The MSDH encourages parents to contact their family physician or county health department if they have any questions regarding what vaccinations their child needs before school begins.

While the pre-school weeks can get a little hectic, parents should make time to ensure their children remain healthy and are ready to face the new school year.