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 511-2-2, 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 after January 1, 2002;
• Entering or transferring 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. Home-schooled students are exempt.

“This week serves as an important reminder for parents and guardians to have their child vaccinated to protect against vaccine-preventable 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/our-counties.