Summer is just getting underway for many students, but local health leaders are urging parents and health care providers to start planning early for the next school year when it comes to required vaccines for students.

In New York state, there is an immunization requirement for students to attend pre-K through 12th grade at public, private and religious schools. Requirements are also in place for many post-secondary students as well.

"Students need these safe and routine vaccinations to stay healthy and to keep others from getting sick around them," said Dr. Michael Mendoza, Monroe County commissioner of public health. "The critical vaccines protect our children from some of the most serious diseases that could make them very sick. As we all know, every year we have a number of students who go unvaccinated and, unfortunately, some who succumb to some of these illnesses. Many of them recover, thankfully, but miss school as a result."

Dr. Mendoza recommends families get kids vaccinated before the start of school in the fall. He is asking others in health care to reach out to their patients and invite them to come into the office throughout the summer, rather than right before school starts. He also suggests opening up vaccination clinics, extending hours and more to make it easier to work around busy schedules.

In addition, parents are urged to take the initiative in reaching out to their primary care physician and inquire about vaccinations.

The county Department of Health offers no-cost vaccinations for students who don't have a primary care doctor.

You can make an appointment on the county's website.