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ALEXANDRIA, Va. — School starts Aug. 24, and Alexandria Health Department officials are warning families that summer is running out of time to get required physicals, vaccines and sports clearances scheduled.
"Appointments fill up quickly in late summer," AHD said in guidance released this week. "Book now."
The department is flagging the reminder against a backdrop of rising concern about vaccine-preventable diseases. Virginia is currently experiencing a measles outbreak with more than 150 confirmed cases, and Alexandria has seen an increase in other vaccine-preventable illnesses in recent years.
"Don't skip vaccines," AHD Director Dr. David Rose said. "Vaccines are the safest and most reliable way to keep kids healthy, learning, and growing strong."
What's required before school starts
Children entering public kindergarten must have a school physical before the year begins, as must many preschool students. Virginia also requires vaccines for students entering kindergarten, seventh grade and 12th grade at schools and daycares across Alexandria. Full vaccine requirements are posted on the Virginia Department of Health's website at vdh.virginia.gov/immunization/requirements.
Students participating in athletics face an additional requirement: a sports physical to confirm they can safely participate. In most cases, a sports physical can be done during a standard wellness visit.
Families should ask for documentation after any appointment — schools, daycares and sports programs will require records.
Where to go
The Alexandria Health Department recommends families start with their child's primary care provider for routine checkups, vaccines and sports physicals. For families without a primary care provider, several options are available:
Vaccines are offered at pharmacies across Alexandria. AHD also provides vaccines for all ages at its Main Clinic and for students ages 12 to 19 at its Teen Wellness Center. Details are at alexandriava.gov/Vaccines.
Sports physicals for Alexandria youth ages 12 to 19 are available through the Teen Wellness Center. More information is at alexandriava.gov/TeenWellnessCenter.
AHD does not provide primary care directly but can help families find nearby providers. Call 703-746-4988 during normal business hours.
Mental health and the basics
Rose also highlighted mental health as a priority heading into the school year. Students ages 12 to 19 can receive free mental health screening and support at the Teen Wellness Center.
Beyond physicals and vaccines, the department is reminding families to reinforce basic hygiene habits before the school year begins — handwashing and staying home while sick remain among the most effective ways to limit the spread of illness in schools.
More information is available at alexandriava.gov/Health or by calling AHD at 703-746-4988.
