A new school year means new classes, new experiences, and new opportunities to learn. You might be book smart in the classroom, street smart as you navigate new experiences, or friend smart as you build relationships. But there’s another kind of smart that can help you stay healthy this school year: vaccine smart.
Being vaccine smart means understanding your health, asking questions, and knowing where to find accurate information.
Smart People Ask Questions!!
Being smart doesn’t mean knowing everything. Asking questions is one of the smartest things you can do.
You may have questions about which vaccines you need, when you need them, or something you saw online. Your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or school nurse can help you find answers based on your individual health needs and current recommendations.
Not sure if you’re up to date? Back-to-school season is a great time to check your vaccination record and talk with a healthcare professional about what you may need.
Be Smart About What You See Online
There’s a lot of health and vaccine information online, but not all of it is accurate. Before you believe or share something, take a moment to think critically.
Ask yourself:
- Who shared it? Look for trusted health organizations and qualified professionals.
- Is it current? Check when the information was published or updated.
- Does it sound extreme? Be cautious of information designed to scare or shock you.
- Can a trusted health professional confirm it? When in doubt, ask.
Being vaccine smart isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about asking questions, checking your sources, and making informed decisions about your health.
As you head back to school, remember: book smart is important. Street smart is important. And being vaccine smart is smart, too.
Start the school year informed, prepared, and Vaccine Smart.
