2008/2009 School Year
In 2006, the Virginia General Assembly passed a law which requires all 6th grade students to have a tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (Tdap) booster shot prior to entry into school. This requirement does not apply to children who have documentation of having received a dose of a tetanus containing vaccine [Tetanus (T), Tetanus Diptheria (Td), or Tetanus Diptheria Acellular Pertussis (Tdap)] within the last five years.
Please review your child’s shot record. If their last shot was before August 25, 2003, please make arrangements now to have your child adequately immunized. There are two manufacturers that produce the vaccine. Boostrix can be administered at age 10. Adacel can only be administered to children that are 11 and older. Since parents don’t know which brand their child’s physician purchases, it is advisable to inquire prior to scheduling the appointment.
The local health departments stock both brands and administer the booster free of charge, but appointments must be made in advance. If you choose to use the health department, be sure to take a copy of your child’s current immunization record with you. Health Department information follows:
Roanoke County/Salem Health Department |
Roanoke County/Vinton Health Department |
Regardless of the chosen location to obtain the Tdap, please obtain documentation and take it to your child’s current school.
This will be your last notification regarding the required Tdap booster. Contact your child’s school nurse with questions. Thank you in advance for you cooperation.