Immunization against childhood diseases are required by Mississippi Law in order to enter school, Head Start, or day care. Specific vaccinations are also recommended for students entering high school or college. The Mississippi State Department of Health provides all necessary immunizations at low cost. Immunizations are free if you qualify for the Vaccines For Children program.

Who needs immunizations?

• Children and newborns: Childhood immunizations are recommended from birth through 18 months, with other vaccinations possible up to 18 years of age. See the Immunization Schedule for complete details.
• Adolescents: Vaccinations targeted specifically to adolescents and teenagers include those against meningococcal disease and HPV.
• College Students: Those entering high school and college should be protected against hepatitis and meningococcal disease. See our brochure below on Meningococcal Disease Facts.
• Adults: Adults need periodic booster shots, and immunization against diseases such as hepatitis. See the Adult Immunization Schedule for details.
• Travelers: International travelers can should contact their local health office about recommended immunizations before departure. Also see our Travelers' Information Pages.

What do we immunize against?

Our childhood vaccinations include:

• Hepatitis B
• Diphtheria, Tetanus and Whooping Cough (Pertussis)
• Polio
• Hib (Haemophilus influenzae Type b)
• Childhood Pneumonia
• Measles, Mumps and Rubella
• Chicken Pox (Varicella)

Are Immunizations Safe?

In most cases, vaccines are effective and cause no side effects, or only mild reactions such as fever or soreness at the injection site. Very rarely, people experience more serious side effects, like allergic reactions. Comprehensive studies have found no link between immunization and conditions such as autism spectrum disorder.

• About vaccine safety
• Vaccines and autism
• U.S. Court of Federal Claims Decision on Autism and Vaccines

Obtaining immunization records: the Immunization Registry

Our Immunization Registry program records immunizations received by individuals from public clinics and participating private doctors. Records for many adults and most children are available there for parents and qualified professionals. For details, see our Immunization Registry page.

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