(CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON – In Alabama, the ‘blue card’ is as essential for returning to school as having a new backpack stuffed with fresh classroom supplies.

The Alabama Immunization Card, or blue card, documents a child’s shots for TDaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis) and other diseases. Students must have the updated blue card to receive classroom assignments.

This year to enter school, the state of Alabama is requiring that all students have at least one Varicella (chicken pox) vaccine. Also, students entering sixth through ninth grade must have an updated TDaP booster and a new blue card.

The Madison County Health Department has scheduled free immunization clinics for children who need updated shot records and blue cards. Clinic dates will be Aug. 12 through 16 and again on Aug. 19, which is the first day of school, and Aug. 20. The clinics will be held at the health department at 301 Max Luther Drive in Huntsville.

On those dates, parents can sign in from 8:30 to 11 a.m. and from 1 to 3:30 p.m. “Parents should bring the child’s shot record or a copy of the most recent blue card with them,” public information specialist Kathie Limbach said. “The shots are free, but please bring your insurance card, if you have one, for possible state reimbursement.”

Parents can turn in cards at their school’s office before Aug. 19.

Individuals who need these immunizations and all students entering the Alabama school system for the first time can come to the health department, Limbach said.

For more information, call 256-533-8679 or visit madisoncountyal.gov, Facebook/MadisonCountyAlabama or Twitter @MadisonCountyAl.