Raleigh
As families across North Carolina prepare for summer camps and back-to-school requirements, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is making it easier for those who are eligible to find free childhood vaccines through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program by launching a new VFC provider map.
The VFC program provides free vaccines for eligible children and teens, covering all those recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including those required for child care and school in North Carolina. Families could save hundreds of dollars per child compared to out-of-pocket vaccine costs.
To make accessing these vaccines easier, NCDHHS launched a new interactive map on VaccinesForKids.nc.gov (English) and VacunasParaNinos.nc.gov (Spanish).
The new interactive map makes it easier for families and community health workers to find local VFC providers who offer free vaccines. Users can search by city or ZIP code and connect with nearby providers.
In addition to the map, families can also:
- Check eligibility for free vaccines
- Access clear, up-to-date information on required and recommended vaccines
- Find answers to common questions about vaccine safety and more
“Vaccines protect what matters most – your child’s health,” said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai. “We know parents want to make the best choices for their children and encourage them to talk to their child’s doctor if they have questions. As we continue to prioritize the health and well-being of our youngest North Carolinians, vaccines remain one of the most powerful tools we have to protect children from serious, preventable diseases.”
NCDHHS understands that families may have questions and encourages everyone to have conversations with their health care providers. To support these important conversations, the Department will continue to provide clinics with new bilingual toolkits, training materials and resources to help guide families through their vaccine decisions.
Why It Matters:
The ongoing measles outbreak in the U.S. reminds us that vaccine-preventable diseases still pose serious risks. Vaccines protect children from illnesses that can be severe or even life-threatening. Delaying or skipping vaccines leaves kids vulnerable.
“We understand that parents want to feel confident and informed,” said Dr. Kelly Kimple, Interim State Health Director/Chief Medical Officer and Acting Director of the Division of Public Health. “The VFC program is about giving parents the tools and support they need to protect their children — at no cost to them.”
Learn more or find a provider near you at VaccinesForKids.nc.gov.
