More than 32% of St. Joe County high school seniors are behind on shots that doctors say would protect them from serious illnesses

After the pandemic hit, nearly all doctor’s appointments to keep people healthy were canceled, including shots for kids. The Indiana Department of Health says the problem is more concerning among 12th graders who will age out of programs that track vaccinations once they reach age 18.

To help families with kids of all ages catch up and get children “back on track” with their shots, M-D-wise, the Department of Health and South Bend Schools are hosting “Back on Track,” from 10 until noon, Saturday, at the Brown Community Learning Center. All routine childhood vaccinations including measles, mumps, rubella, polio and HPV will be available, as well as flu shots and, for those 5 and older, COVID-19 vaccines.

The event is open to everyone and will include free lunch free school supplies and door prizes of $50 gift cards.

Parents and caregivers should sign up online at www.patients.vaxcare.com/registration (enter enrollment code IN97832, then select Back on Track South Bend 3/19). Registration is encouraged but not required.

Anyone who needs help with transportation to get to the event should call MDwise customer service at 800-356-1204.

Children younger than 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult with valid identification, such as a driver’s license, identification card or passport. Insurance is not required for qualified children to get their shots, but if they are covered by health insurance, that information must be given.

WHAT: Back on Track kids’ shots event
WHEN: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. March 19
WHERE: Brown Community Learning Center, 737 Beale St., South Bend, IN
WHO: MDwise, IDOH and South Bend Schools