It is a contagious disease that causes severe coughing that makes it difficult to breathe It spreads easily when someone with the disease coughs or sneezes Symptoms can last for months It is particularly dangerous for babies

 California has an epidemic  More than 8,300 cases reported in 2010  Most cases reported in the last 60 years  At least 10 infant deaths  Childhood immunization does not provide lasting immunity to Pertussis (Whooping Cough)

A new immunization law that was enacted by the California legislature in September, Starting July 1, 2011, this law requires ALL students in grades 7 through 12 in California to be immunized with a Pertussis (Whooping Cough) vaccine booster called Tdap

July 1, 2011 The law has two phases: Phase I: For school year , ALL students entering or returning to 7 th, 8 th, 9 th, 10 th, 11 th, or 12 th grades will need proof of Tdap vaccine before starting school Phase II: For and future school years, all students entering 7 th grade will need proof of Tdap vaccine before starting school

Medical Exemption Physician letter is required Must specify Permanent or Temporary (how long) Exemption Personal Beliefs Exemption Must complete Personal Belief Exemption form from school health office NOT intended as a convenience Must be signed by parent/guardian

Where to get Whooping Cough Tdap shot? Primary Care Provider Local Health Department Castle Family Health Centers Golden Valley Health Centers Family Clinic of Merced Kids Care Livingston Medical Group Bloss Health Center Atwater Medical Group Winton Health Center Various other clinics/centers Local Health Department Vaccine Clinic: Monday 1-6pm Phone number:

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