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New Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Booster Immunization Law for Incoming 7th through 12th graders

A new California law now requires that all students entering 7th through 12th grade in the 2011-2012 school year provide schools proof that they have received an adolescent pertussis (whooping cough) booster shot (Tdap). 

The new law was enacted following a widespread pertussis epidemic in 2010. Pertussis is a serious disease that causes coughing fits that can last for months. It can also be deadly for infants.

Once your student receives the Tdap booster shot, bring the written proof to the front office of your student’s current school.  If your student has already received the Tdap booster shot, please bring a copy of the written proof to your student’s current school.

The Elk Grove Unified School District is urging parents of current 6th through 11th graders to get the booster shot now to avoid the back-to-school rush this summer.  Please note that the tetanus-diphtheria booster shot (Td) does not meet the requirement of the law.  Students must have the Tdap booster to meet the requirements of the new law.

California law allows parents/guardians to exempt their child from the pertussis booster (Tdap) immunization for two reasons:  (1) medical (by way of letter from physician) or (2) personal beliefs.  The law does not allow parents/guardians to elect an exemption out of convenience. The exemption form is available at the school and must be completed at the school of attendance. If you have questions, contact the Nurse or Health Records Assistant at the school.

After the 2011-2012 school year, only students entering 7th grade will need to show proof of having received the adolescent pertussis booster shot.

Students can get a Tdap booster shot through their medical provider, at a clinic or through a number of pharmacies. 

For more information, please click on the Frequently Asked Questions below or visit the California Department of Public Health’s website at www.cdph.ca.gov/Pages/DEFAULT.aspx.

Frequently Asked Questions
AB 354: The New 7th – 12th Grade California Immunization Law FAQ's
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Summer Office hours for Tdap immunization drop off
2011 Office Summer Schedule

 

 

 

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