County Health Department to hold special school registration immunization clinics for adolescents

Mississippi law requires children entering a Mississippi school (from pre-kindergarten to 12th grade) for the first time are required to have had the following vaccinations.

• Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (DTaP)

• Polio (IPV)

• Hepatitis B

• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)

• Chickenpox (Varicella)

If your child is entering the seventh grade, either by advancing or transferring in, a pertussis (Tdap) booster is now required if they have not received a Tdap vaccination since the age of seven.

MSDH State Epidemiologist Dr. Paul Byers reminds parents stating,

“A Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) booster vaccination is required for those entering seventh grade. To make sure your adolescent is completely protected, we also recommend they get the HPV (human papillomavirus) and meningococcal vaccinations at the same time.”

Parents must provide the school with a Certificate of Immunization Compliance (Form 121) from their immunization provider prior to school entry.

You may check with your family physician or the county health department at (601) 798-6212 if you have questions about which immunizations your child will need.

Vaccinations are available from the Pearl River County Health Department at 7347 Highway 11 North, Carriere, MS on Monday July 29th and Wednesday July 31st from 8:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.

No appointment necessary.