Salem Public Schools Nursing News

As the current school year draws to a close, we would like to remind you of Massachusetts' state immunization requirements for school enrollment. Summer is the perfect time to catch up on immunizations and well-child annual health visits. Here is a summary of the mandated immunizations by age group:

Preschool

• HIB: 1-4 doses
• DTaP: 4 doses
• Polio: 3 doses
• Hepatitis B: 3 doses
• MMR: 1 dose
• Varicella: 1 dose

Grades K-6

• DTaP/Tdap: 5 doses
• Polio: 4 doses
• Hepatitis B: 3 doses
• MMR: 2 doses
• Varicella: 2 doses

Grades 7-12

• Tdap: 1 dose
• Polio: 4 doses
• Hepatitis B: 3 doses
• MMR: 2 doses
• Varicella: 2 doses
• Meningococcal: 2 doses
• Dose # 1 - To be administered between 7th and 10th grade
• Dose # 2 - To be administered between 11 and 12th grade

For more information regarding Massachusetts state school immunization schedule, please click HERE

Bug Spray Buzz...

• Insect repellents are used to prevent mosquito and tick bites during the summer months. Both insects carry diseases that may have detrimental effects to humans.
• For safety, the CDC recommends using products that are registered with the EPA as they are deemed safe for all to use. If the product is registered with the EPA it is safe and effective in the prevention of insect bites.
• Look for products that contain one or more of the following ingredients:
• DEET - chemical compound developed in the 1940s proven to be effective against mosquitos and ticks.
• Picaridin - Synthetic chemical that resembles the compound in the plants used to produce black pepper
• IR3535 - Synthetic chemical developed in 1980s that affects insects' sense of smell.
• Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE) - Natural oil derived from plants that insects find undesirable.
• Para-menthane-diol (PMD) - Biochemical pesticide derived from eucalyptus plants.
• Rules of thumb:
• Always read product instructions prior to use.
• Always apply sunscreen prior to applying bug spray.
• Always wash hands, clothes and body after use.
• Always use a product with effective ingredients targeted for the insect bite that is being avoided.

For more information from the EPA regarding insect repellent, please click HERE

Burger Bowls

Ingredients

Salad

• 1 lb Ground Beef
• 3 Heads Romaine Lettuce - chopped
• 1 Cup Cherry Tomatoes - halved
• 1/2 Cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
• 4 Pickles - chopped
• 4 Slices Bacon
• Salt and Pepper - to taste

Sauce

• 1/2 Avocado Mayo
• 2 TBSP Mustard
• 1/4 Cup Honey
• 1/4 Cup BBQ Sauce

For cooking instructions, please click HERE

Looking for a cure for summer boredom? Here are a few free activities available within the City of Salem:

• Visit the Tall Ship Friendship
• Explore the Salem Maritime National Historic Site
• Check out the Punto Urban Art Museum - outdoor murals located in The Point neighborhood
• Tour the Ropes Mansion and take some rest and relaxation in the expansive gardens
• Plan a play date and picnic at Salem Commons
• Spend the day at Salem Willows
• Power walk through the cemeteries
• Follow the yellow line for a tour of Salem on the Heritage Trail.