New requirements for additional immunizations for students went into effect last Aug. 1, 2011. According to an article on the RepublicanHerald.com, if a student does not have the required vaccinations, they may not be able to attend school.
The new regulations require that all children receive a second dose of mumps and a complete three-dose serious of the hepatitis B vaccine. Also, seventh-grade students must have a dose of meningococcal conjugate vaccine and one dose of tetanus diphtheria and acellular pertussis, or Tdap, vaccine, according to the state Department of Health. The Tdap is required if five years have passed since the last vaccine. Additionally, if children have never had chickenpox, a second vaccine is required.
An eight-month provisional period started from the first day of school in each district as of last year. It is up to the individual school districts to decide if they want to admit students who are not current on their vaccines.
According to the article, there is help for parents and students who may still need to get update on their immunizations. The Schuylkill County State Health Center, 103 One Norwegian Plaza, Pottsville, is offering free vaccinations from April 9 through April 13 from 11 AM to 7 PM. Registration is required by calling 877-724-3258 or by going to www.padohclinicappt.com