Reminder: All students entering seventh grade are required to have the Tdap vaccine, or a Religious, or Medical Exemption

Florida State Statute 1003.22 requires that all students entering seventh grade must receive the Tdap vaccine, which protects against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (whooping cough). All seventh-grade students need to show proof of Tdap immunization before starting school. This requirement is in addition to other immunization requirements that are grade-appropriate.

Health care providers should document the Tdap vaccine on the Florida Certificate of Immunization form 680. Religious exemptions are documented on form 681. Parents of seventh-grade students should make sure to bring the form to their children's school before the first day of school. Seventh-graders will not be allowed to attend class if schools do not have a 680 or 681 form on file. Many students have already received the Tdap vaccine and simply need to supply proof to their schools. The Florida Department of Health in Duval County provides free vaccines for children. For more information, please call the district's Health Services department at (904) 253-1130.