State of Michigan passes new school immunization requirements

August 1, 2002

Contact: Dr. James Avery, Superintendent, New Haven Community Schools, 586-749-5123

Beginning with the 2002-2003 school year, schools in Michigan will be required to assess and report the immunization status of all 6th grade students. In the fall of 2002, all 6th graders must have documentation showing they have had the following immunizations:

• Complete series of DTP/Td with one dose in the last 10 years
• Three doses of polio
• Two doses of MMR
• Three doses of Hepatitis B
• One dose of varicella (chickenpox) if no history of the disease.
  

All doses must be given at appropriate ages and must be spaced properly. This new requirement will help assure school-aged children are up-to-date and protected against vaccine-preventable diseases.

Please supply your child’s school with up-to-date immunization records before school starts in the fall. Children must have one dose of each vaccine to start school this fall. If necessary, waiver forms are available at your school.