The Ironton City Health Department can now vaccinate more area children through an agreement between it and Tuscarawas County General Health District, also a designated rural health center.

“This agreement will lead to a healthier and safer environment for Lawrence County children,” said registered nurse Alicia Fannin. “It just goes to show the power of partnership.”

The Ironton City Health Department estimates to be able to vaccinate many more children because of this agreement facilitated by the Ohio Department of Health.

Previously, underinsured could receive immunizations only through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program at rural health clinics and federally qualified health centers. Because of funding limitations, only some vaccines were available at local health districts.

Now, these children can receive all available vaccines at Ironton City Health Department.

“By working together, we have the opportunity to vaccinate 7,000 more children as we continue our efforts to turnaround Ohio,” said ODH Director Alvin D. Jackson, M.D. “It is imperative children be vaccinated to protect and improve their health and the health of our communities.”

Ohio is the 23rd state to implement such an agreement, and 113 local health districts are participating; Ohio has 130 local departments.