The Arizona Department of Health Services requires that all 11-year-old children obtain two adolescent vaccines, Tdap and Meningococcal (MCV4), or provide a valid exemption. These new immunizations are important as they will provide protection against serious illness.
Tdap is a combination vaccine that provides protection against three bacterial diseases — Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Whooping Cough). Meningococcal prevents against four types of bacterial meningitis.
Parents should review their child’s immunization records. If these vaccinations have not been received, the child should obtain the vaccination at either their doctor’s office or an immunization clinic. Proof of immunizations will need to be received before the student can begin school.
Children who are not yet 11 will be required to get the new immunizations once they turn 11.
