Milwaukee Health Department Hosts Vaccine Clinics, Offers Incentives to Boost Child Immunizations

Milwaukee parents are urged to take advantage of the City of Milwaukee Health Department’s (MHD) vaccination clinics this week, a move aimed at enhancing immunization rates among school-aged children. According to a recent report, just 75% of Milwaukee children are up to date with the necessary vaccinations for school, lagging behind national health objectives. The clinics not only offer these essential vaccines but also provide an incentive: all families attending will be entered into a draw for free tickets to local attractions.

In an effort to address public health concerns, the MHD has organized two special clinics. Scheduled for Friday from 3 p.m to 6 p.m at the Northwest Health Center and Saturday from 10 a.m to 2 p.m at the Southside Health Center, these sessions aim to facilitate easier access to vaccinations. As reported by the City of Milwaukee, the decline in immunization rates poses a risk not just to the children but to the community at large, particularly in light of the 111 cases of pertussis already reported in Milwaukee County this year.

The importance of vaccines, such as those for measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (DTaP), and varicella, is widely recognized—they play a crucial role in containing the spread of infectious diseases. This surge in pertussis, also known as whooping cough, highlights the urgent need for updated vaccinations. In addition to the standard school-required vaccines, flu and COVID-19 shots are available to anyone aged 6 months and older at these clinics, with no requirement for insurance.

Milwaukee’s vaccination clinics are part of MHD’s broader goal of making healthcare more accessible. Children who are uninsured, Medicaid/BadgerCare enrollees, or those of Native American or Alaskan Native descent are eligible for free vaccines, addressing disparities in healthcare access within the community. As per a city announcement, this initiative directly contributes to reducing illness risk among vulnerable populations and by extension, to the wider public.

For those interested in protecting their children against preventable diseases and possibly winning a trip to the zoo or art museum, details on the MHD’s immunization services can be found on Milwaukee's official health department website. Further resources and information about the importance of vaccinations, eligibility criteria, and other public health initiatives are available on their website.