August 13, 1997

For Immediate Release (Trost) RE: IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS OUTLINED Parents who will be enrolling children in the San Diego City Schools are reminded that immunization of students under age 18 is required for admittance to school unless they are exempt for medical reasons or because of personal beliefs. Pupils are required to be immunized against polio, diphtheria, whooping cough, tetanus, measles, mumps and rubella. General immunization requirements for school attendance are as follows: Poliomyelitis - Four doses, but three are enough if at least one was given after the second birthday. DTP/DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis) - four doses, with fourth dose after two years of age. Measles, Rubella, Mumps - One dose of each given separately or together after one year of age. A second dose of MMR is required by law for entering kindergarten students only. HIB (haemophilus influenzae type b) is required of children under four years six months. Hepatitis B - Three doses for entering kindergarten students only. A "No Shots, No School" policy is in effect for all students in the following categories: · day care centers, preschools, child development centers and nursery schools; · kindergarten enterers (or first grade enterers where there is no kindergarten); and · all pupils transferring to a California school from outside the United States. Parent signature verification of immunization dates is no longer acceptable for children in preschool or regular school programs. Parents must present a current immunization record that is signed or stamped by a physician or other medical professional in order for their children to be admitted to school or file a permanent medical exemption or personal beliefs exemption with the school. Questions may be directed to the Comprehensive Health and Physical Education Office, San Diego City Schools, 293-8295 and/or school nurses. Information on obtaining a permanent medical exemption or personal beliefs exemption for students is available from school principals.