print  |  email

New Immunization Requirement for 6th Grade Entry


Attention: Parents of rising 6th-graders,
North Carolina law now requires a booster vaccine for entry into 6th grade.

Which vaccine?
A booster shot of Tdap (tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis) is required for all children entering 6th grade on or after August 1, 2008.

Why is Tdap needed?
To protect teens from whooping cough (pertussis), tetanus and diphtheria. Over time, protection wears off, so pre-teens need a booster shot to stay fully protected.

What if my child already had a Td (tetanus/diphtheria) booster?
If it has been more than 5 years since your child got a tetanus shot, they will need the Tdap booster. Almost all rising 6th-graders will need to get the Tdap booster; however, if it has been less than 5 years since your child got a tetanus shot, they are not required by law to have a booster to enter 6th grade. You should talk to your child’s doctor to see if your child might benefit from getting the Tdap booster at this time.

What do I need to do?

  • Talk to your child’s doctor to find out whether your child needs a Tdap booster.
  • Make sure your child gets a Tdap booster shot before school starts.
  • Get a copy of your child’s shot record to take to school.
  • While at the doctor, check to make sure your child is up to date on other recommended vaccines and yearly checkup.

Where can my child get a Tdap booster?

  • Your child’s doctor or healthcare provider.
  • If your child does not have a healthcare provider, call one of these Wake County Human Services locations:
    • Fuquay-Varina
      Southern Regional Center       [view directions]
      130 N. Judd Parkway NE
      Call 919-212-7000 for an appointment. Ask for
      an appointment at the Southern Regional Center.

    • Raleigh
      Public Health Center        [view directions]
      10 Sunnybrook Road
      Call 919-250-3900 for an appointment.

    • Wake Forest
      Northern Regional Center        [view directions]
      350 E. Holding Ave.
      Call 919-562-6300 for an appointment.

    • Zebulon
      Eastern Regional Center       [view directions]
      1002 Dogwood Lane
      Call 919-404-3900 for an appointment.