IMPORTANT: Tdap Vaccinations

Children/students entering seven through 12^th grade can get their Tdap shot and any other immunizations needed for school by visiting their regular doctor or health care provider.

The Vaccines for Children Program (VFC) offers free vaccines for eligible patients 18 years and younger.

Children/students eligible for Medi-Cal can find a VFC provider by visiting: http://www.eziz.org/pages/vfc_locations2.html or call 1-877-243-8832. For uninsured or underinsured patients, parents can find a list of federally qualified health centers in their area at http://www.oshpd.ca.gov/RHPC/Clinics/FQHCS.html.

Some local health departments and pharmacies may also offer the Tdap vaccine and other immunizations. For more information, families are urged to contact their local health department.

School officials will accept as proof of immunization any immunization record, known as a ‘yellow card,’ a California Immunization Registry (CAIR) record, computer printout, and an immigration record that includes a student’s name, date of birth, vaccine name or abbreviation, date vaccine was administered, and the name (written or stamp) of the clinic, office or doctor who administered the vaccine.

Parent or guardian whose personal beliefs are contrary to immunizations may have their child exempt from the required immunization. Schools have standardized procedures for parents and guardians who request a personal beliefs exemption.  Physicians may also grant an exemption in writing for students whom immunizations are not medically indicated.

To learn more, visit the California Department of Public Health, Immunization Branch website at: http://www.getimmunizedca.org