Updates and Resources from the Polk Co. Health Department

The Polk County Health Department is a good resource for questions and concerns on disease and illnesses affected school-age children. Visit their website (www.polkcountyiowa.gov/health/) or give them a call (515-286-3798) to stay up to date on current health issues.

Updates

Vaccination Requirement for Children Entering 7th Grade

Beginning with the 2013-14 school year, and all future school years, the State of Iowa will require all students entering, advancing, or transferring into seventh grade, and born on or after September 15, 2000, to provide proof of an adolescent booster immunization known as Tdap.

Tdap is a booster vaccine for older children, adolescents, and adults. It safely protects against three dangerous diseases: tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). The Tdap vaccine is routinely recommended for adolescents 11-12 years of age and can be administered as young as ten years old. This required booster vaccination will reduce school outbreaks, keep kids in school, and protect others in the community, such as younger siblings who have a higher risk of complication or death from whooping cough.

Resources

Immunization Requirements

Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Fact Sheet

Influenza Information for Schools