As a parent or guardian, ensuring your child's health and well-being is of utmost importance. In the state of Florida, one crucial aspect of maintaining your child's health is by keeping their immunizations up-to-date. The Florida Certificate of Immunization, also known as the DH 680 form, is a vital document that verifies your child's immunization status. In this article, we will delve into the requirements of the DH 680 form, its importance, and the steps to obtain it.
What is the Florida Certificate of Immunization (DH 680) form?
The Florida Certificate of Immunization, also known as the DH 680 form, is a state-issued document that verifies a child's immunization status. This form is mandatory for children attending school or childcare facilities in Florida. The DH 680 form serves as proof that a child has received the required vaccinations, making it an essential document for parents and guardians.
Why is the DH 680 form important?
The DH 680 form is crucial for several reasons:
- Prevents the spread of diseases: By ensuring that children are up-to-date on their immunizations, the DH 680 form helps prevent the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases.
- Meets school and childcare requirements: The DH 680 form is required for children attending school or childcare facilities in Florida, making it a necessary document for parents and guardians.
- Maintains public health: By tracking immunization records, the DH 680 form helps public health officials monitor vaccination rates and prevent outbreaks.
Requirements for the DH 680 Form
To obtain the DH 680 form, parents and guardians must meet the following requirements:
- Child's immunization records: The child's immunization records must be up-to-date, and the parent or guardian must provide proof of vaccination.
- Florida residency: The child must be a resident of Florida.
- Age and grade requirements: The child must be of school age (Kindergarten through 12th grade) or attending a childcare facility.
Required Immunizations
The DH 680 form requires the following immunizations:
- Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP): A minimum of four doses, with the last dose given on or after the fourth birthday.
- Polio (IPV): A minimum of four doses, with the last dose given on or after the fourth birthday.
- Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR): A minimum of two doses, with the first dose given on or after the first birthday.
- Varicella (Chickenpox): A minimum of two doses, with the first dose given on or after the first birthday.
- Hepatitis B: A minimum of three doses, with the last dose given on or after the first birthday.
How to Obtain the DH 680 Form
To obtain the DH 680 form, follow these steps:
- Gather required documents: Collect your child's immunization records and proof of Florida residency.
- Visit a healthcare provider: Take your child to a healthcare provider, such as a pediatrician or family medicine physician, to verify their immunization status.
- Complete the DH 680 form: The healthcare provider will complete the DH 680 form and provide it to you.
Maintaining the DH 680 Form
To ensure that your child's immunization status remains up-to-date, follow these steps:
- Keep immunization records current: Regularly review and update your child's immunization records.
- Schedule booster shots: Schedule booster shots as recommended by your child's healthcare provider.
- Update the DH 680 form: When your child receives additional vaccinations, update the DH 680 form accordingly.
Additional Resources
For more information on the DH 680 form and immunization requirements in Florida, visit the following resources:
- Florida Department of Health:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
By understanding the requirements of the DH 680 form and maintaining your child's immunization status, you can help prevent the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases and ensure your child's overall health and well-being.
Do you have any questions or concerns about the DH 680 form or immunization requirements in Florida? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
Call to Action
Stay informed about immunization requirements in Florida and maintain your child's health by following these steps:
- Schedule regular vaccinations: Regularly schedule vaccinations for your child to ensure they stay up-to-date on their immunizations.
- Keep immunization records current: Keep your child's immunization records current and updated.
- Stay informed: Stay informed about immunization requirements in Florida and any changes to the DH 680 form.
By taking these steps, you can help protect your child's health and prevent the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases.
What is the purpose of the DH 680 form?
+The DH 680 form is a state-issued document that verifies a child's immunization status. It serves as proof that a child has received the required vaccinations, making it an essential document for parents and guardians.
What immunizations are required for the DH 680 form?
+The DH 680 form requires the following immunizations: Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP); Polio (IPV); Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR); Varicella (Chickenpox); and Hepatitis B.
How do I obtain the DH 680 form?
+To obtain the DH 680 form, gather your child's immunization records and proof of Florida residency, visit a healthcare provider to verify their immunization status, and complete the DH 680 form.