Important Information regarding immunizations....

Click Here to read Important information regrading immunizations

Click Here to read Immunization FAQ's

Attention Parents and Guardians:

A Message from Mater Dei Catholic High

 For the 2011-12 school year, a new State law (AB354) now requires that all students entering into 7th-12th grades get a whooping cough booster shot, called Tdap, before starting school. This includes current students, new students, and transfer students in both public and private schools. Any student who does not have proof of getting a Tdap booster shot will not be allowed to start school until proof of immunization is given to the school.

What immunization (vaccine, shot) is necessary to meet the new requirements?
Students affected by the new requirements need documentation of one dose of Tdap to begin classes in the new school year.

We encourage you to contact your child’s doctor now if your child hasn’t yet received a dose of the Tdap booster vaccine to schedule an immunization appointment.

Any student who does not have proof of getting a Tdap booster shot will not be allowed to start school until proof of immunization is given to the school.

Please schedule your appointments early.  Childern should visit their regular doctor or health care provider to get their Tdap shot.

To find a provider near you, call 1-877-243-8832 or visit: http://www.sdiz.org/documents/IZ-clinics/iz9e.pdf.

What PARENTS Need To Know! Frequently Asked Questions about Immunizations

AB 354: The New 7th – 12th Grade California Immunization Law

Click Here to download PDF from California Department of Public Health, Immunization Branch

What PARENTS Need To Know

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the new Tdap requirement for 7th – 12th graders?

Starting July 2011, a new law (AB 354) changing California immunization requirements for all students entering 7th-12th grades goes into effect. The law requires:

Do ALL 7th – 12th grade students need to get the “Tdap” shot?

Yes. For this coming school year (2011 – 2012 school year), all students going into 7th – 12th grades must have proof of having had the Tdap booster shot before starting school. This includes current students, new students and transfer students in both public and private schools. Beginning the year after (2012 – 2013 school year), the law will only affect 7th graders. Limited exemptions are allowed.

What is Tdap?

Tdap is a booster vaccine for older children, adolescents, and adults. It safely protects against 3 dangerous diseases: tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough (also called pertussis).

Why was the Tdap requirement added?

This new requirement will help protect your child and others in your school and community from whooping cough. Whooping cough is a serious disease that causes coughing fits that can last for months. It can be deadly for infants. In recent years, whooping cough has been increasing in the United States. In 2010, whooping cough was widespread in California.

What are the diseases tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough (pertussis)?

• Tetanus – (also called lockjaw) causes painful tightening of the muscles. It can lead to “locking” of the jaw so the person cannot open his/her mouth or swallow.

• Diphtheria – is a throat infection that can lead to breathing problems, paralysis, heart failure and death.

• Whooping cough – (also called pertussis) is a contagious disease that causes violent coughing fits that make it hard to breathe. It spreads easily when someone with the disease coughs or sneezes. Symptoms can last for months. Whooping cough is very dangerous for young babies.

When should my child get vaccinated?

Now. A large number of students need a Tdap shot before the start of school next year. Avoid the rush and make sure your child can start school on time. Make an appointment for your incoming 7th – 12th grader to get a Tdap booster shot now. Children as young as 10 years old are recommended to get vaccinated with Tdap. This will protect them against the ongoing threat of whooping cough and will meet the Tdap school requirement for when they are in 7^th grade.

Keep documentation of your child’s Tdap booster shot in a safe place. Your child will need proof of

immunization in order to start school.