New Requirement For Tdap Vaccine for 2013-2014 School Year | Health

ROCK ISLAND CO., Ill.--The Illinois Department of Public Health has directed that beginning in the Fall of 2013, students entering into the 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grades will need to receive one dose of Tdap vaccine (containing tetanus, diphtheria and acellular pertussis).Students must provide proof of having received the vaccine, proof of having an appointment scheduled to receive the vaccine, or have an approved medical or religious exemption on file with the school system.  The Tdap vaccine must be received regardless of the interval since the last DTaP, DT, or Td dose.  If a student does not comply by October 15, 2013, the child will be excluded from school.

According to Dr. LaMar Hasbrouck, Illinois Department of Public Health Director, this change is being required because there has been an increase in pertussis (whooping cough) in Illinois during the past six years.  Pertussis is very contagious and is spread through the air by an infected person talking, coughing, or sneezing.

What:                   Tdap vaccine is available at the Rock Island County Health Department

When:                  Appointments can be scheduled at 309-794-7080

                               From 8-11 AM and 1-4:30 PM, Monday through Friday

Location:             Rock Island County Health Department

                               2112 25th Ave.

                               Rock Island

Cost:                     Call 309-794-7080 about payment options and insurance billing

Submitted Press Release