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How HCPs can help students stay healthy at school

"We are at risk as a nation of losing our measles elimination status."

  • By

  • Julie Greenbaum

  • September 18, 2026

  • 12 min

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Clinical Scorecard: How HCPs can help students stay healthy at school

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionInfectious Diseases in School Settings
Key MechanismsVaccination and preventive health measures
Target PopulationStudents and adolescents
Care SettingSchool and college health services

Key Highlights

  • Measles resurgence in the U.S. with over 2,500 cases confirmed as of mid-August 2026.
  • Vaccination coverage for MMR among kindergartners has fallen below 93%.
  • Routine vaccinations are essential for preventing diseases with high morbidity and mortality.
  • Adolescents account for a significant share of new STI and HIV diagnoses.
  • Vaccination against meningococcal disease is crucial for college-bound students.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Routine screening for STIs and HIV in adolescents.

Management

  • Ensure students are up-to-date on routine vaccinations including MMR, Tdap, and HPV.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Monitor vaccination status and provide updates before the school year.

Risks

  • Unvaccinated individuals are at high risk for outbreaks of measles and other infectious diseases.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Adolescents and college students

PrEP is safe and effective for adolescents but has lower uptake compared to adults.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Encourage open conversations about sexual health with adolescents.
  • Check vaccination status regularly, especially before school entry.
  • Educate families on the importance of routine vaccinations.

Related Resources & Content

Original Source(s)

How HCPs can help students stay healthy at school

  • by Julie Greenbaum

  • September 18, 2026

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