Meningococcal Vaccine Secondary School Requirement
The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH), Bureau of Immunization, has completed the administrative rule making process to require meningococcal (A, C W, Y) vaccine for students enrolling in 7th and 12th grades. The administrative rule change was effective January 11, 2017, and will be implemented at the beginning of the 2017-2018 school year. The Immunization Program has developed a variety of materials regarding the new requirement. The following resources are available on the Immunization Program’s webpage.
For the 2017-2018 school year, and all future school years, all students entering into 7th grade and born after September 15, 2004, will need proof of one dose of meningococcal conjugate vaccine. All students entering into 12th grade and born after September 15, 1999, will need proof of two doses of meningococcal vaccine; or one dose if received when the student was 16 years of age or older.
Adolescents are likely the main source of transmission for meningococcal disease. The new requirement will better protect students during their school years. Immunizations also help protect others within the home, in the community, and at school. About 10-15% of people with the meningococcal disease die even with appropriate treatment. Of those who recover, up to 20% suffer from serious after-effects, such as permanent hearing loss, limb loss, or brain damage. Meningococcal vaccines are very safe and effective at preventing meningococcal disease.
There will be no grace/extension period for those students who have not received their first dose of the meningococcal vaccine. All 7th grade students born after September 15, 2004, will need to submit proof of the vaccination before enrolling in school. All 12th grade students born after September 15, 1999, will need to show proof of two doses; or 1 dose if received when the student was 16 years of age or older.
If you have any questions about the new meningococcal requirement, please contact the school.