School books have been put away for now and children in Effingham County are enjoying the lazy days of summer. But the new school year is fast approaching and in preparation, Effingham County Health Department officials will extend clinic hours to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, July 19 and Tuesday, July 26 so children can get the necessary back-to-school screenings and immunizations.

The Effingham County Health Department provides the hearing, vision and dental screenings and immunizations required for school attendance and will provide parents with immunization certificates once the screenings and immunizations are completed. Free coupons from local eateries will be available for those participating in the extended hour clinics while supplies last.

Daycare and school-aged children are required by Georgia law to get certain immunizations before entering school. Parents who wait until just before school starts to get back-to-school services for their children can expect longer waiting times at the health department.

“Effingham County schools start back in early August and it will be here before we know it,” said Effingham County Nurse Manager Cindy Grovenstein, R.N. “We encourage parents to bring their children in now to avoid the last minute rush.”

For a complete immunization schedule, go to www.gachd.org and click on Immunizations and Vaccinations under the Quick Links menu. Effingham County Health Department staff can help explain the schedule, what immunizations are needed and when they are needed.

The Effingham County Health Department is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call the Effingham County Health Department at 754-6484.