In January, Michigan adopted new rules that require three additional vaccines for students entering sixth grade and others age 11 to 18 who are changing districts.
Those shots include the vaccines for chickenpox, meningococcal disease, tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis, also known as whooping cough. Tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis are covered by a single vaccine called Tdap.
The vaccines are available from pediatricians, family doctors or at county health departments.
The new rules are intended to reduce the spread of contagious diseases. Doctors said meningococcal disease is a form of meningitis that can lead to the loss of limbs or even death.
Health officials are especially concerned about the recent increase in cases of whooping cough. According to the state, there were 902 cases of whooping cough in Michigan in 2009. That’s compared to an average of 340 per year from 2003-07.
The new shots are required, but parents can opt out by filling out an exemption form.
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