Georgia Preteen Vaccination Week (March 10-14)

Courtesy of Southeast Health District

The Southeast Health District is joining public health officials across Georgia in recognizing Georgia Preteen Vaccination Week from March 10-14. This observance is an annual initiative by the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) aimed at raising awareness about the importance of vaccines for adolescents.

Vaccination is a critical step in protecting preteens and teenagers from serious and potentially life-threatening diseases. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Georgia DPH recommend several vaccines for adolescents, including those that protect against meningitis, HPV, tetanus/diphtheria/ pertussis (Tdap), and COVID- 19.

In accordance with Georgia DPH Rule 511-22, students attending school in Georgia must have proof of immunization against meningitis and pertussis (whooping cough) if they meet the following criteria: • Born on or afier Janu –

ary 1, 2002; • Entering or transfer –

ring into seventh grade; • Any "new entrant" into Georgia schools in grades 8-12.

This requirement applies to all public and private schools, including charter schools, community schools, juvenile court schools, and other alternative school settings. Homeschooled students are exempt.

“This week serves as an important reminder for parents and guardians to have their child vaccinated to protect against vaccinepreventable diseases,” said Synita Mathis, Immunization Coordinator for the Southeast Health District. She continued, “Parents and caregivers should make it a priority to have their child vaccinated with recommended vaccines to ensure a healthy future for their children.”

For more information about preteen and teen immunizations, call 1(855)473-4374 or visit www.dph.georgia.gov/ schoolvaccines. To find a health department near you, visit www.sehdph.org/ourcounties.