New Pertussis (Whooping Cough) immunization required
Because California is currently experiencing an epidemic of Pertussis, commonly called “whooping cough,” a new law has been established by the State. It requires that “all students entering grades 7 through 12 will need proof of a Tdap booster shot before beginning school” (California law – Assembly Bill 354).
Valley Christian families are required to present proof that your children entering grades 7-12 have met this requirement as a condition of enrollment for the 2011-2012 school year. According to California law, the school must receive the immunization record of the Tdap booster dose given or your child may not return to school in the fall.
What forms or information do I need to submit to the school? Submit your student’s immunization record indicating that the booster has been given. Ideally, this record should be turned in to their campus office by the end of this school year however we will accept immunization records until August 12, allowing you time this summer to schedule an appointment. After June 10, 2011, immunizations records must be turned in at the Business Office. A copy of your child’s immunization record with the booster is REQUIRED before they may begin school in September.
What is pertussis (whooping cough)? It is called whooping cough because of the deep persistent cough which may be followed by a crowing sound (“whoop”) when breathing in. It usually starts like a common cold and gets worse over 1-2 weeks. Coughing may also be accompanied by vomiting, gagging, choking or turning blue. The cough can last for weeks. Pertussis is very contagious. It is usually spread by droplets produced when a person with pertussis coughs.
Where can I find more information about this law, pertussis, and the Tdap vaccine? You can get more information from your physician or visit
http://publichealth.lacounty.gov
Who needs this? If your child is aged 10 years or older and has not yet received one dose of the Tdap pertussis booster shot, he or she is now required to get the dose.
How do I know if my child has been immunized already?
You must check with your healthcare provider to be sure they have been vaccinated against pertussis. Please call your doctor’s office for official documentation of this information.
It is possible your child could have received this vaccination on or after their 7th birthday. The Tdap booster also goes by the following names; Adacel, Boostriz, DTaP or DTP.
Could this be included in the sports physical for my high school athlete? At this time we are exploring the opportunity for high school students, not just high school athletes, to receive the Tdap booster when sports physicals are offered at the campus in June and July. We will provide additional information regarding this in an upcoming Crusader Weekly.
What do I need to provide to the school if my child has a Medical Exemption to Tdap? A letter from your physician indicating the reason for the exemption.
Thank you for your attention and timely response to this new requirement. If you have any questions, please contact the Business Office at 562.860-0556.
