TDAP immunization required for sixth grade students

Experts say the Tdap booster gives adolescents added protection against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (better known as whooping cough). These potentially serious ailments are largely preventable with proper vaccination.

Children must meet all Virginia school immunization requirements. The law changed in 2014 to require Tdap vaccination of all sixth graders, including those under the age of 11. To avoid the last-minute rush before the start of school, parents should consider getting the Tdap booster for their child as soon as possible to fulfill this Virginia requirement.

Tdap boosters may be obtained from a doctor, military clinics, or the Prince William Health District, which will provide written documentation that the requirement has been met.

If completed before the end of this school year, documentation should be taken to the nurse at the school where the child currently attends.

The school nurse will notify the child’s intended middle school that the vaccine has been received. This will ensure there will be no delay in your child’s admission to middle school on his or her important first day of school on August 29.

The Prince William County Health District may be reached at the following locations and telephone numbers: 9301 Lee Avenue, Manassas, VA 20110, 703.792.6301, and 4001 Prince William Parkway, Ste. 101, Woodbridge, VA 22192, 703.792.7300.