Tdap Vaccination Required for JPS 7th Graders
September 10, 2020
Families of seventh graders are encouraged to provide the Certificate of Immunization Compliance (Form 121) to show they have received a a recent Tdap vaccination. Although, they are learning virtually, this is still a state requirement for school. |
A Certificate of Immunization Compliance (Form 121) is required for all Mississippi school children in grades K–12. For students entering seventh grade, the form must show a recent Tdap vaccination which protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious and very serious disease, it can be severe or even fatal in very young children. Due to a rise in incidence of pertussis, the Tdap vaccine became mandatory in 2012 for all students entering seventh grade.
According to state law, Mississippi Code 41-23-37, parents must provide proof of their child's immunization record showing the date vaccines were administered by their family doctor, clinic, or a state health department. If a seventh grader's registration status is pending or they are being registered for school, please make sure to provide the Immunization Compliance Form showing the recently administered (between ages 10 and 12) Tdap vaccination.
Vaccinations can be administered by your family physician or at a county health clinic. Mississippi Department of Health Clinics provide mandatory vaccines at low cost to zero cost. The cost of the Tdap vaccine without insurance is $10 but this is also based on ability to pay. Immunizations are free for individuals who qualify for the Vaccines for Children Program which is available to children who receive Medicaid or have a health plan that does not cover vaccinations. There are more than 30 Vaccines for Children providers in Hinds County. Additionally, most private health insurance, including the State Employees' Health Insurance Plan, covers recommended vaccines at no charge to their members.
Local Clinics
The following local providers can administer the Tdap Vaccine:
- Hinds County Health Department, Jackson Medical Mall, 350 W. Woodrow Wilson Avenue, Suite 411, (601) 432-3070.
- Choices for Children, 2941 Terry Road, ( 601) 373-0566.
- UMMC Unacare Health Center, 258 E. Fortification Street, (601) 815-8231.
- TrustCare, 4880 I-55 Frontage Road North, (601) 487-9199.
- Walgreens (Choose location when scheduling an appointment online.)
For more information, visit Mississippi Department of Health. You may also download the JPS TDAP vacinnation flyer.