Are immunizations required during the COVID-19 pandemic?

Yes, the state of Maryland’s immunization requirements remains in effect for the upcoming school   year 2020-2021.

Will my son/daughter still need to receive immunizations if they are not attending school and are taught in a virtual classroom (computer)?

Yes, all students are required to be compliant with immunizations whether they return to school in-person or are taught in a virtual classroom (computer).

Is it safe to receive immunizations during the COVID-19 pandemic?

Routine vaccination is an essential preventive care service for children, adolescents and adults that should not be delayed because of the COVID-19 pandemic.  Ensuring immunization services are maintained is essential for protecting individuals and communities from vaccine-preventable diseases and outbreaks, such as chicken pox and measles.  Health care providers will take special precautions which can include, but not limited to physical distancing within the waiting room, face mask, hand washing, surface cleaning, seeing patients at a different time or a different location, and limiting the number of people to can accompany the child.  If you have concerns, please call your health care provider and discuss with them the procedures in place to minimize risk of exposure to COVID-19. 

How do I know what immunizations my son/daughter may need?

If your child is a 7th grade student for the 2020-2021 school year, he/she may need the Meningococcal (MV4) and Tdap immunizations.  If your child is entering Kindergarten, he/she may need the second dose of MMR and/or Varicella.  Many immunizations are part of a series of doses.  You should check with your health care provider to make sure your child is up-to-date with all of his/her immunizations You may also contact your child’s school to find out if he/she may need immunizations.

Where can I receive the necessary immunizations for my child?

First, call your primary health care provider to schedule an appointment for your child to receive the immunizations he/she may need.  

Are there other places where I can receive immunizations for my child?

KIPP Baltimore 

Ruth & Norman Rales Health Center at KIPP Baltimore (2000 Edgewood Street) 

• BY APPOINTMENT ONLY 

• For an appointment 410-793-7263, Monday-Friday, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm 

Baltimore City Health Department’s Immunization Program 

TIKE Immunization Clinics (1200 E Fayette St) 

• BY APPOINTMENT ONLY 

• For an appointment, please call 410-396-4454, Monday - Friday, from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.  No walk-ins will be allowed in. 
   

Retail Pharmacies (Giant Pharmacy locations & Minute Clinics)  

Scroll down for a list of retail establishments that may be able to help with immunization needs. 

• Please call ahead to inquire about availability, hours, insurance requirements, and social distancing guidelines.