7th Grade Tdap

The Tdap vaccine protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). All children 11 years and older must have the Tdap booster before entering 7th grade. Whooping cough causes mild to severe coughing spells and can last for months. The coughing spells can make it hard to eat, drink, and even breathe. Pertussis can also cause pneumonia, seizures, brain damage, and death. Pre-teens (and adults) should make sure they get the Tdap vaccine because they can easily spread whooping cough to friends and family members, like babies and younger siblings, who are more likely to suffer severe complications if they get pertussis.

The Varicella vaccine can prevent chickenpox. The first dose is usually given between 12-15 months and the second dose between ages 4-6 years. Chickenpox is a highly contagious disease caused by the Varicella-Zoster virus (VZV). It causes an itchy, blister-like rash. The rash appears first on the chest, back, and face, and then spreads over the entire body. It can also cause fever, tiredness, loss of appetite, and headache. It can be serious in infants under 12 months of age, adolescents, adults, pregnant women, and people with a weakened immune system. Most people who are vaccinated with 2 doses of the Varicella will be protected for life.

Sincerely,

Mykell Johnston Lofton

H.U.S.D. Nurse