Dear Parents,
Based on a recent decision by the Nevada legislature and on updated recommendations from the Washoe County District Health Department, students entering 7th grade in the Washoe County School District will be required to show proof of immunization against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (Tdap) prior to school enrollment for the 2010-2011 school year.
Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory tract infection that can occur in places like middle schools, where there is close interaction among large numbers of students. Although most children are immunized against pertussis before enrolling in kindergarten, immunity wears off over time and leaves adolescents unprotected.
This new requirement affects all students entering 7th grade, provided at least 5 years have passed since the student’s last childhood tetanus-containing vaccine (Td, DTP or DTaP).
Parents are encouraged to review their child’s shot record and make arrangements with their health care provider for vaccination prior to the busy ‘Back to School’ season. School begins on August 23, 2010.
For more information, you may contact the Washoe County Immunization Program at 328-3724 or visit their website at www.washoecounty.us/health.
Kathy Long
Clinical Aide
Incline Middle School
832-4220
