All public school students who enter the 6th grade must have a booster dose of the Tdap vaccine before the first day of school. This applies to students who had their last tetanus/diphtheria vaccine five or more years ago. (NC law GS 130A-152)

The requirement also applies to 12 year olds in private, non-traditional, or home schools; and those entering college or university for the first time.

Tdap is a vaccine that provides protection against three diseases: tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (commonly called whooping cough). Parents should co ntact their child's doctor to schedule an appointment to receive this vaccine. Buncombe County parents may also take their child to the Buncombe County Department of Health for the vaccine without an appointment. Because Tdap is required, there is no cost for the vaccine, although your doctor may charge a small fee to give the vaccine.

Your child's school will need to have a copy of an up-to-date vaccination record on the first day of 6th grade. You will have 30 days from the first day of school attendance to present the required immunization record for your child. If proof of vaccination is not provided by the end of the 30 calendar day period, the child will be suspended from school until they provide proof of immunization.

This rule change also affects mumps vaccine. Students are now required to receive a second dose of mumps vaccine before enrolling in school, college, or university for the first time.

Do not delay! Make sure your child is ready and up-to-date on their vaccinations before the start of the 6th grade school year.

For more information, call your child's doctor's office, the Buncombe County Department of Health at 250-5096 or visit http://www.immunize.nc.gov/schools/index.htm.