Getting children vaccinated according to the recommended immunization schedule is one of the most important things parents can do to help protect their child’s health.
Vaccines protect against a number of serious and potentially life-threatening diseases. When children are not vaccinated, they are at increased risk for disease and can also spread disease to others in their classroom and community – including babies who are too young to be fully vaccinated, and people with weakened immune systems.
According to Minnesota county-level immunization data, Rice County kindergarteners in 2024-2025 were below the state average for MMR and varicella vaccination rates. In addition, data reflects that in 2024 only 60% of Rice County children ages 24 - 35 months had received their complete immunization series for DTaP, polio, MMR, hepatitis B, PCV, HIB and varicella, below the state average of 63%.
“Children who don’t receive recommended vaccines are at risk of getting the disease or illness,” says Deb Purfeerst, Rice County Public Health Director. “Now is the perfect time to schedule your child’s well child exam and vaccination review.”
Are your kids up to date on their immunizations? Information is available to help parents know which vaccines their child needs at www.health.state.mn.us/people/immunize/basics/readyk12.pdf
Vaccines are available from your local healthcare provider. In addition, vaccines are available at Rice County Public Health for uninsured children, children on MA programs and adults who are uninsured.
Walk-in immunization clinics are held every Tuesday from 1–4 p.m. at the Rice County Public Health Department, 320 NW Third St. NW, Faribault. Appointments are preferred, but not required. If Tuesday afternoons don’t work for your schedule, call Public Health for a different appointment day/time at 507-332-6111.
Rice County Public Health Mission: To protect, promote and improve the health of ALL individuals and families in our community.
