ATTENTION! Important Modifications to the 2009-2010 Immunization Schedule

Source: State of Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals

Important modifications will be made in the 2009 – 2010 immunization schedule affecting school age children.  To best implement and remain compliant with the latest immunization requirements, please note the summary of changes to ensure that school students in your care are properly immunized.

Middle School Requirement:

Effective July 1, 2008, Act 152 and Act 342 requires that beginning with the 2009 – 2010 school year and continuing thereafter, a student shall provide satisfactory evidence of current immunizations against meningococcal disease and any other age appropriate vaccine as a condition of entry into the sixth grade.  Further, any student who has attained the age of eleven years or who is entering a grade other than grade six shall provide satisfactory evidence of current immunizations against meningococcal disease and any other age appropriate vaccine as a condition of entry into that grade.  This requirement also affects susceptible individuals through 18 years of age who are enrolled in any Louisiana school.

At the time of registration, students must show proof of immunization of the following vaccines: 

• Tetanus Diphtheria Acellular Pertussis vaccine (Tdap);
• two (2) doses of Varicella;
• two (2) Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR);
• three (3) Hepatitis B (HBV); and
• one (1) Meningococcal Vaccine (MCV-4)

Kindergarten / First Time Enterers:

Beginning in school year 2009 – 10, two doses of varicella vaccine will be required in Louisiana schools for entry into pre-k, kindergarten, daycare, and headstart programs.  In addition, prior to school entry, these students must have documented proof of immunizations for:  two (2) doses of MMR; three (3) HBV; two (2) Varicella; and booster doses of DtaP and Polio vaccines administered on or after their 4th birthday and prior to school entry.  If a child is not complete (up-to-date for age), he/she must present a record indicating the child is in progress of receiving vaccines, and follow-up must be provided for compliance with the above requirements.

Please communicate the upcoming new vaccination requirements to parents as opportunities arise.  As always your help is greatly appreciated in assuring that students enrolling in school for the 2009 – 2010 year are in compliance with the new requirements.

Questions may be directed to the Immunization Program at (504) 838-5300.