Student Immunization Information 
for School Entry
As the numbers of COVID-19 cases  continue to rise, some health organizations have already started thinking about the pandemic's effects on efforts to curb the spread of other infectious diseases.

It's possible, given the rate of COVID-19's spread, that vaccination schedules for some children have already been impacted. That makes it important to monitor the pandemic's effects on a local level. During a pandemic, we are aware that different parts of the state may be at different stages. You can discuss with your child's healthcare provider current transmission patterns in your specific area and determine the best time to schedule wellness appointments and vaccinations.

Vaccines are required by Virginia State Law ( ยง 22.1-271.2. Immunization requirements) for attending Virginia schools and daycare. Immunizations  keep children healthy and prevent the spread of vaccine-preventable disease. When we immunize our children against infectious diseases, we give them the opportunity to learn and grow in a healthy environment.

Once your child has received his or her required immunizations, make sure you have an immunization record for both your child's personal health record and a record for the school you plan to attend.

School and Day Care Minimum Immunization Requirements 

According to the Virginia Department of Health, "No student shall be admitted by a school unless at the time of admission the student or his parent submits documentary proof of immunization to the admitting official of the school." Vaccines must be administered in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control spacing and age requirements.

Documentary proof shall be provided of adequate age appropriate immunization with the prescribed number of doses of vaccine as indicated ( click here to view) for attendance at a public or private elementary, middle or secondary school, child care center, nursery school, family day care home or developmental center. 

Students enrolling in a Diocesan school for the 2020-2021 school year must submit a current, complete, age and grade appropriate Commonwealth of Virginia School Entrance Health Form to the school health clinic they plan to attend. 

No student is permitted to return to the physical school campus without this form on file.

School Entrance Health Form Instructions can be located here. 

TDaP Notice for 2020-2021 School Year

ATTENTION: Parents of 6th Graders Vaccination required for all Students Entering the 7th Grade 

TDaP IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENT FOR 7TH GRADE ENTRY

ALL students entering the 7th Grade for the upcoming school year must show proof of the TDaP vaccination (at age seven or later) by presenting documentation of Immunization Compliance.

T his includes new students, current students and transfer students in both public and private schools. 

The TDaP vaccination provides protection against tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough (pertussis), a highly contagious disease that can be severe or fatal, especially in very young children. 

Again, EVERY student entering the seventh grade must have documentation from a physician verifying they have received a recent TDaP vaccination in order to return to school when campus reopens. 

More information about this vaccination can be found on the CDC website . 
       
COVID-19 specific information can be located on the following sites:

For more information, the Virginia Department of Health's coronavirus website shows the number of test results and those being monitored for the illness in Virginia. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has also provided a   coronavirus disease situation summary.
The primary goal of this newsletter is information sharing among professionals regarding health issues that may impact our communities.
  
Amber Dise, MSN, RN, CRRN 
Diocesan School Health Coordinator
[email protected]
703.498.7684