NYC Health + Hospitals is reminding parents and guardians to schedule appointments for physicals, immunizations, vision and hearing tests, and other health services at NYC Health + Hospitals locations citywide. Annual physicals are important to ensure children are growing and developing properly. Health services for children and adolescents are available city-wide at little or no cost at NYC Health + Hospitals locations.
Many NYC Health + Hospitals ambulatory care sites are able to begin an annual health exam for children three years and older via a telephone or video visit with the child’s pediatrician. After the initial virtual engagement, a brief in-person appointment is scheduled between the patient and their provider to complete a physical exam and any lab work or vaccines that may be needed. If parental consent is on file, the teen can come alone for the in-person scheduled visit.
This year, vaccinations take a new priority as children 12 years and older are eligible to receive the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Receiving this safe and effective vaccine will further support the City’s fight against the pandemic and keep children and adults safe as they resume pre-pandemic activities, such as universal in-person learning, contact sports, and more.
Flu vaccines are also still highly encouraged by the public health system. The flu is a contagious illness that infects the nose, throat, and lungs and can cause severe illness and life-threatening complications, especially for children. All parents and guardians should seek the annual flu vaccine for children over 6-months, once it becomes available. Flu season changes every year but can start as early as October.
The NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and NYC Department of Education offer the latest information on vaccine requirements for children. General information regarding the COVID-19 vaccine can be found at here.
NYC Health + Hospitals also offers parents and guardians eight pieces of health advice to help children get ready for the school year, including advice on vaccination requirements, flu shots, nutrition, sleep, setting routines, and more.
To make an appointment at any NYC Health + Hospitals location, parents and guardians are encouraged to call 1-844-NYC-4NYC (1-844-692-4692).
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