Schools have new immunization requirements from the Ohio Department of Health.  The changes will impact students entering kindergarten and 7^th grade in the upcoming school year.  The new requirements are in addition to proof of the 2^nd MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) vaccine that is already a requirement.  The major changes effective for the 2013-14 school year are:

• The addition of a Tdap or Td booster requirement for 7^th grade
• The addition of the 2^nd dose of Varicella (a progressive requirement starting with kindergarten for 2010)
• A requirement that the 4^th dose of Polio be administered on or after the 4^th birthday

 The single most significant change for the middle school is the addition of a Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) or Td (tetanus and diphtheria) booster for 7^th graders.  Most children entering 7^th grade in Ohio have not yet received the Tdap or Td booster.  Of the two, Tdap is preferred because it provides vital protection against pertussis (also known as whooping cough).

 Please contact your child’s physician to see if they have had the required vaccination.  All current 6^th grade students need to get the Tdap or Td booster by the start of next school year.  If they are not compliant by the 15^th day of school, they will be excluded from school until providing proof of compliance.  After receiving the required Tdap or Td booster, please provide a copy of their immunization record to Bethel Tate Middle School.  Please direct all questions to Chris Berry, R.N., at 513-734-2271       ext. 4053.  Thank you for your time and understanding.

 If Bethel-Tate Middle School does not receive documentation that your child has had the required Tdap or Td booster immunization by September 5, 2013, your child will be excluded from school starting on September 6, 2013 and remain excluded until proof of compliance and documentation is received.  These absences will not be excused.

 Chris Berry, R.N.

District School Nurse

Bethel Tate Local Schools