Jefferson County health officials share back-to-school tips to keep students healthy
Tue, August 18, 2026 at 12:37 PM
As students head back to class in Jefferson County, officials with the county’s general health district say it is a key time to raise awareness about general health practices that can prevent sickness from spreading
As students head back to class in Jefferson County, officials with the county’s general health district say it is a key time to raise awareness about general health practices that can prevent sickness from spreading
“As kids go back to school and throughout the entire school year, we certainly understand that kids are going to get sick. It’s just part of the whole deal of being in the classroom, being with other kids, and especially throughout the respiratory virus season,” said Andrew Henry, the Jefferson County health commissioner
Henry said establishing healthy routines early can help students be ready to learn each day
“The biggest thing is making sure kids are getting adequate sleep at night. Got to make sure that you’re rested up and ready to go. Proper nutrition, so at least three square meals and some snacks throughout the day to ensure that they’re energized and ready to go,” Henry said
Officials are also encouraging families to make sure students are up to date on vaccinations
“We want to make sure that kids are getting those vaccinations that are required by the schools. So if your kids need vaccines, please call us at the health department, contact your pediatrician. You want to be sure that your kids are caught up on all your vaccines,” Henry said
Looking ahead, Henry said the health department is planning flu vaccine opportunities this fall
“We do expect to have a drive-through flu vaccine clinic in October, as well as some sporadic locations throughout the county in September and October, so please be able to look out for that. We want everyone to have safe and healthy school year,” he said
For more information, the Jefferson County General Health Districtcan be reached at (740) 283-8530
