Effective January 1, 2008, the New Jersey State Department of Health and Senior Services adopted new immunization regulations (N.J.A.C.857-4). All children born on or after January 1, 1997, AND entering or attending Grade Six are required to receive one booster of diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (Tdap), as well as one dose of meningococcal vaccine. The Tdap cannot be given prior to the child's 10th birthday. A minimum of five (5) years shall have elapsed from the last dose of DTaP/Td vaccine in order to receive the Tdap. Please note that this applies to students when they turn 11 years of age and attending Grade Six. Completion of these immunizations is required before entrance to Grade Six in September 2009 unless a student's birthday is after school begins, in which case the student may attend school and will be required to receive the vaccines as soon as they turn eleven (11) years old.
I strongly recommend that 6-8th graders receive a physical examination by their medical provider It is very important to share these findings with the school nurse, particularly if your child wishes to participate in sports The physical must be done within 365 days prior to the first tryout. The forms will be in the summer packet picked up in August 2009.
Please make copies of the completed forms for your records and submit the original forms to me as soon as possible. If you have questions, please contact Mrs. Simpson at 973 347 0008 ext 1117 after September 1, 2009.
A note about student health insurance...
"Governor Corzine has made a commitment for New Jersey to provide universal health insurance to children and affordable options for parents and guardians..." (Davy, 9/08) If you would like more information you may go to http://www.njfamilycare.org or call 1-800-701-0710.
Preschool Immunization requirements: Tdap.OPV,MMR,HIB,HBV,Varicella per immunization guidelines. Annual Flu immunization prior to December 2009.
