Fairfield Union Local School District Fairfield Union High School

NEW Immunization Requirements for Grade 12 Students 2018 – 2019

In accordance with the State of Ohio Immunization Requirements for school attendance, two doses of MCV4 (Meningitis) vaccine are now required prior to entry into twelfth grade.

**Note: If your child had their 1st dose of MCV4 at 16 years of age or older, a 2nd dose is not required**

Bacterial meningitis is an inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord that can be fatal within days of exposure, even in otherwise strong and healthy adolescents. The symptoms – which are commonly mistaken for a cold or flu – can make a sudden appearance and leave the victim dead within a day or two without treatment.

Survivors of the illness can have long-term complications, including brain damage, limb loss and hearing loss.

Some people can carry the bacteria without getting sick and spread the illness to others through saliva, sharing a drink or kissing. The vaccine has been recommended for several years for young people entering college.

If your child is in need of these vaccines, please make an appointment soon with either:

	Your family physician or health care provider
	The Fairfield County Department of Health (call 740-652-2800 to make an appointment)
	The Fairfield County Health Department will be holding two open clinics in May. I am including the information on the back of this letter.

I am letting you know about these requirements early because the summer and start of the school year is very busy at most physician offices and at the FCHD and you may find it difficult to get an appointment in a timely manner. According to Section 3701.13, on the 15th day after school entrance, it will be necessary to exclude from school all students who do not meet the requirements of receiving the Meningococcal immunization.

If you get the shot or verification of the immunization at a sport physical, please be sure to send the immunization information to the school nurse not the coach or athletic department.

If you have any questions, please feel free to call or email Caroleosborne@fairfieldunion.org.

Thank you,

Carole Osborne School Nurse