How Do You Feel About a New Immunization Requirement for Teens?

On July 1, a new immunization requirement became effective for the 2011-12 school year that affects all current, new and transferring students entering seventh through 12th grades.

These students must be vaccinated with the pertussis (Whooping Cough) vaccine booster called tetanus toxoid, reduced diphtheria toxoid and acellular pertussis vaccine (Tdap).

Whooping cough is an extremely contagious bacterial infection that can cause serious illness and even death.

Students will be required to show proof of immunization to attend public and private school in August.

Starting with the 2012-13 school year and going forward, seventh graders must be immunized with Tdap, with limited exceptions.

According to the California Department of Education, immunization with Tdap can protect students who have not been immunized against whooping cough.