July 28, 2008 - Vineland Public Schools today announced important information for parents about mandatory immunizations for some students that will be required before September 1, 2008.
These immunizations are mandated by the State of New Jersey, said contact Rosolyn Williams, Supervisor of School Health Services. “Failure to comply with the state mandated immunizations will result in the exclusion of your child from attending school and bus passes may be withheld for any student who is noncompliant,” said Williams.
Each child ages 12 months through 59 months enrolled in preschool on or after September 1, 2008 must have received at least one dose of pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (Pneumovax or Prevnar) on or after their first birthday but before September 1, 2008. In addition, these same students are required to annually receive at least one dose of influenza vaccine by December 31 of each year.
Also, all students entering Grade 6 born on or after January 1, 1997 must receive one dose of Tdap (Tetanus, diphtheria, acellular pertussis) given no earlier than their 10th birthday by September 1, 2008. In addition, sixth grade students are required to have one dose of a meningococcal-containing vaccine (Menomune or Menactra) before September 1, 2008.
Children entering Kindergarten must show evidence of receiving a DPT (Diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus) and Polio on or after their fourth birthday and a second MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella). Please update your child’s records at the Vineland Public School’s Registration/Transportation Department.
“Please keep in mind that some of these new immunizations are in addition to what your child is already required to receive to remain in school,” said Williams. “These immunizations are to be given by your family doctor or a local immunization clinic if you have no insurance or if your insurance does not cover the cost of immunizations. You may contact the Vineland Health Department at (856) 794-4261 to request an appointment or contact Community Health Care’s Neighborhood Medical and Patient Learning Center at (856) 691-3300.”
Once your child has received these additional immunizations, please take updated records to the Registration/Transportation department located at 17 West Landis Avenue across from Sears, said Williams.
“Please make sure to schedule your child’s immunization appointments early to ensure your child’s attendance at the beginning of the school year,” she said.
Please contact Williams at (856) 794-6700 extension 2314 if you have any questions regarding immunizations.