Immunizations
California Health and Safety Code, Sections 120325-120375:
Under these statutes, children in California are required to receive certain immunizations in order to attend public and private elementary and secondary schools, child care centers, family day care homes, nursery schools, day nurseries and developmental centers (Preschool facilities). Schools, and pre-kindergarten facilities are required to enforce immunization requirements, maintain immunization records of all children enrolled, and submit reports.
Students Admitted at TK/K-12 Need:
- Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP, DTP, Tdap, or Td) — 5 doses
(4 doses OK if one was given on or after 4th birthday. 3 doses OK if one was given on or after 7th birthday.)
For 7th-12th graders, at least 1 dose of pertussis-containing vaccine is required on or after 7th birthday. - Polio (OPV or IPV) — 4 doses
(3 doses OK if one was given on or after 4th birthday) - Hepatitis B — 3 doses
(not required for 7th grade entry) - Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) — 2 doses
(Both given on or after 1st birthday) - Varicella (Chickenpox) — 2 doses
PARENTS' GUIDE TO IMMUNIZATION
See the documents below for school immunizations requirements.
FREE IMMUNIZATION CLINIC
Exemption to School Immunizations
Starting in 2016, SB 277 went into effect, and personal belief exemptions are no longer an option. This bill removed exemptions for immunizations except for medical reasons verified through CAIR-ME, which is required through your doctor.
• No longer permits immunization exemptions based on personal beliefs for children in child care and public and private schools;
• Only permits personal belief exemptions submitted before January 1, 2016 to remain valid until a pupil reaches kindergarten or 7th grade;
Tdap booster Shots (Pertussis/Whooping Cough)
Tdap is a booster vaccine for older children, adolescents, and adults. It safely protects against 3 dangerous diseases: tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough (also called pertussis) All students entering 7th grade are required to obtain a Tdap booster shot before starting school. This may be obtained after age 10 and records provided to the school.
For children without health insurance, contact the Child Health and Disability Prevention Program (CHDP) at (916) 875-7151.