Nurse News from Monica Beasley, RN - USD 287 District School Nurse

       As we look to the fall, we anticipate the beginning of the 2020-2021 school year and the preparations needed to transition back to school.  

Students new to the district; planning to re-enroll or starting school need to provide the school with a copy of their birth certificate, a well-child physical, and proof of up-to-date immunizations.   Check with your local health care provider or the health department about the status of your child’s immunization status.  

Last year a couple of changes from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) were implemented and they will continue to phase these requirements in.  I’ve summarized them below, but be sure and ask your healthcare provider if you have any questions!  Feel free to call me and I’ll be happy to help. (785-566-3512)-ask for the nurse.

HIGHLIGHTS OF NEW 2020-2021 IMMUNIZATIONS FOR KANSAS SCHOOL CHILDREN

For older kids:

Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (DTaP/Tdap): Five doses required,  A single dose of Tdap is required at entry to 7th grade,

Hepatitis A: Two doses required.  Doses should be given  at 12 months with a minimum interval of 6 months between the 1st and 2nd dose. (Provisional based on expected revision to K.A.R. 28-1-20 prior to school year).  Previously required for early childhood programs

Meningococcal (Serogroup A,C,W,Y): Two doses required. Doses should be given at entry to 7th grade (11-12 years) and 11th grade (16-18 years). For children 16-18 years, only one dose is required.

In addition, to the immunizations required for school entry the following vaccines are recommended to protect students: 

• Human Papillomavirus (HPV): Two doses recommended at 11 years of age or three doses if the series is started after 15 years. 

• Influenza:  Annual vaccination recommended for all ages > 6 months of age. Number of doses is dependent on age and the number of doses given in previous years.

*Note:  If your student is diagnosed with influenza, KDHE requires 7 days at home from onset of symptoms and fever-free upon return.

Plan on getting your child the influenza vaccine next school year too, because, according to KDHE,  “Persons with influenza are required to remain in home isolation for 7 days following onset of illness or for the duration of illness if the case is immune-compromised, except when seeking medical care.”   If your child has a positive influenza nasal swab, they shall be required to stay at home.