Immunization

The Department of Health works with healthcare providers and other partners throughout the state to immunize children, adolescents, and adults against vaccine preventable diseases. These include measles, mumps, whooping cough, diphtheria, flu, and pneumonia. The Department's Immunize for Life initiative includes Vaccinate Before You Graduate, the Childhood Immunization Program, and the Adult Immunization Program (healthcare providers can now enroll to provide vaccine). Vaccines administered through these programs prevent disease and save lives. Scientific data show that vaccines are safe and effective.

Cost

Rhode Island provides vaccines free of charge to providers for children and teens up to 19 years of age.  Flu and pneumonia vaccines are covered by most health insurance policies. Vaccinations for persons traveling to foreign countries are not, however, always covered by insurance and may be quite expensive.

Where to get vaccinated

The Department of Health recommends that all children be up-to-date on all recommended vaccinations and encourages parents to ask their pediatricians about vaccinations at each visit. Children without health insurance or a regular doctor can get vaccinated at St. Joseph's Hospital's free immunization clinic (21 Peace Street, Providence, Rhode Island; 401-456-4359). Older children can also be immunized at school as part of the Vaccinate Before You Graduate program. Adults with insurance can get immunized for flu at their providers' offices or at public flu clinics. Adults planning to travel outside of the United States can receive recommended vaccines at travel clinics.