The Iowa Department of Public Health has made changes to the Iowa
Immunization law for the start of the 2017-18 school year. This change
requires that all students entering 12th grade have the Meningococcal vaccine before school starts this fall.
Meningococcal disease is a life threatening illness that is caused by bacteria that infects the brain, blood, and spinal cord. It easily
spreads in crowded settings and typically affects older
teens and young adults.
All students entering 12th grade must have proof of having the
Meningococcal vaccine
before school starts in August, unless the student has a Certificate of Immunization Exemption.
The student must have 2 doses of the Meningococcal vaccine if they are born after September 15, 1999,
or 1 dose if they received the vaccine at age 16 or older.
There will be no grace/extension period for the implementation of
this requirement.
Now is a great time for your child to receive these immunization requirements and beat the
back-to-school rush by making an appointment for your incoming 12th grader.
Thank you for your time and attention to this requirement.
