The Westchester County Health Department is hosting free immunization clinics for children ahead of the back-to-school season.

Doctors say now is the time to start making appointments for vaccinations to avoid the September rush.

They say there are many families who need to catch up on doctor visits that were missed during the past year due to the pandemic.

“Our numbers are extremely low now, and it's a really good time to get your children in to their doctor and for adults to get into their doctor," says Westchester Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler.

The Health Department is hosting free vaccination clinics in its Yonkers and White Plains offices until the end of August to help families who don't have insurance get their children vaccinated.

It's the law that children returning to the classroom this fall must have the required vaccinations for various diseases, such as measles, diphtheria and more.

"To attend school, they must have at least the first dose of every vaccine that's required 14 days before school starts,” Amler says.

Parents can call the Health Department at 914-995-5800 to make an appointment for their children

Doctors also encourage parents who have children eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine to get that shot as well.