Amarillo, TX - With the start of school getting close, parents are being urged to get their children up-to-date on their shots as soon as possible.
The City of Amarillo Department of Public Health continues to hold their back-to-school immunization clinics, but they expected to see higher numbers.
They say that compared to last year, there has been a decline in parents bringing their children in.
The demand for immunization services always increases the week of school registration, but by that time, parents could be faced with increased wait times and vaccine shortages when they are needed the most.
"The problem of waiting too long would be that there could be a shortage and if there's a shortage those children that are lacking that vaccine might not be able to begin school on time. That would cause a problem for the parents, it's a problem for the schools. We're really trying to prevent that eventuality," says Director of Public Health Matt Richardson.
Parents are encouraged to check with their school to ensure their children are prepared to attend with proper immunizations.