New Vaccination Required For Middle School Aged Students

From The Johnston Community School District:

Beginning with the 2013-2014 school year, and all future school years, the State of Iowa will require all students entering, advancing, or transferring into seventh grade and born on or after September 15, 2000, to provide proof of an adolescent tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough) booster immunization known as “Tdap”.

Tdap is a booster vaccine for older children, adolescents, and adults.  It safely protects against three dangerous diseases: tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). This new requirement will help protect your child and others from whooping cough. Last year there was a 417% increase in whooping cough in Iowa. This required booster vaccination will reduce school outbreaks, keep kids in school, and protect others in the community, such as younger siblings who are higher risk of complication or death from whooping cough.

The Tdap vaccine is routinely recommended for adolescents 11-12 years of age and can be administered as young as 10 years of age.  Many students have already received this vaccine.

Questions can be directed to your child’s school nurse.