Thursday, August 01, 2013

STUDENTS Kindergarten through 12th Grade MUST have 2 MUMPS and RUBELLA Vaccines!

IMPORTANT: Immunization regulations in Maryland have changed for the 2013-2014 school year. As a result, all Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) students enrolled in kindergarten through Grade 12 must have received two Mumps and Rubella vaccines prior to the start of school on August 19. Most students in the United States already receive two doses of this vaccine in the form of the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine; however, some foreign-born students receive these vaccinations separately.

Mumps and Rubella are serious diseases. Mumps can cause deafness and meningitis (an infection of the brain and spinal cord). Rubella (German Measles), if contracted while pregnant, can lead to a miscarriage or serious birth defects. Both Mumps and Rubella are airborne diseases, therefore easily contracted by simply being near someone who already is infected.

Parents are encouraged to check their child’s health record to ensure he or she m...eets the new state requirements. If the current immunization form on record does not include this second MMR vaccine, please provide proof of immunization by submitting an updated immunization form or a note from your child’s doctor on his/her letterhead to school. Some health insurance plans offer an electronic copy of the immunization form that can be submitted to school staff.

Parents should contact their child’s primary care provider if they have any questions. For those families without health insurance, contact the Division of Maternal and Child Health Immunization Program at the Prince George’s County Health Department at 301.583.3300 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 301.583.3300 FREE  end_of_the_skype_highlighting.

Free immunizations are available for children without health insurance for Prince George's County residents. Appointments MUST be scheduled in advance by calling the Prince George's Health Department at 301.583.3300 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 301.583.3300 FREE  end_of_the_skype_highlighting. Immunization clinic locations include:

Cheverly Health Clinic
3003 Hospital Drive
Cheverly, MD 20785
HOURS: M, Tu, Th, Fri.
8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Clinton Health Clinic
9314 Piscataway Road
Clinton, MD 20735
HOURS: First and third Wednesday of every month (unless it falls on a holiday)
8:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.

After August 5, the Cheverly Health Clinic’s hours of service will change to Mondays from 12:30-4:30 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. and Fridays 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. After August 5, the Clinton Clinic will provide immunization service on August 7th and 21st from 8:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.
Up to date immunizations are a requirement for entry into school. Maryland State immunizations regulations have changed for the 2013-14 school year. When school begins on August 19 all students enrolled in grades K through 12 must have two Mumps and Rubella doses.

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