A Closer Look at Vaccination Requirements for Tennessee Schools

Nashville, TN (WKRN) — This week, News 2 has covered extensively stories about children and vaccinations, but what does it really mean for a child to be considered fully vaccinated in Tennessee?

When gathering information about the count of vaccinated children throughout the Volunteer State, the Tennessee Department of Health examines various types of vaccines.

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Take a more detailed examination of what they entail and under what circumstances the state mandates them for enrolling in school:

Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (DTaP)

The DTaP vaccination provides protection from three specific illnesses: trench mouth, lockjaw, and whooping cough. Some immunizations are referred to as Td or DT vaccines, which only offer coverage for tetanus and diphtheria. A booster shot that includes protection against whooping cough is known as Tdap.

According to Vanderbilt University Medical Center Trench mouth refers to a condition marked by "a heavy layer covering the nose, throat, and respiratory tract," which spreads through direct interaction with individuals who have the infection. The bacteria responsible for tetanus usually penetrate the body through injured skin and may lead to tightness in the neck and jaw muscles, known as lockjaw, and can result in death. Pertussis, commonly called whooping cough, involves severe bouts of coughing, and the causative organisms can transmit through airborne particles released when an infected person sneezes or coughs. This disease poses serious risks, particularly to newborns.

When is it required?

In Tennessee, kids starting kindergarten and those joining public schools in any grade besides kindergarten must be fully vaccinated with the DTaP shot. Also, every child beginning seventh grade—whether new or currently enrolled in Tennessee—is needed to receive a Tdap booster. Students entering other grades besides seventh do not require the Tdap vaccination.

The VUMC states that following the initial childhood vaccination schedule, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advise getting a booster shot every ten years. This booster typically involves a Td vaccine, unless extra immunity against pertussis is required.

Inactivated Poliovirus Vaccine (IPV), or Oral Poliovirus Vaccine (OPV), for polio

The inactivated poliovirus vaccine, also known as IPV, has been the sole type of polio vaccination administered in the United States since the year 2000. according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The location where the vaccine is given can vary depending on the individual's age, typically either in the arm or the thigh.

Even though it is no longer authorized or sold in the United States, numerous regions around the globe continue to use oral polio vaccine, also known as OPV, where kids get their shots through liquid drops placed in their mouths. Certain strains of poliovirus may emerge from OPV, and IPV has been implemented to remove the possibility of these strains in individuals who have received OPV vaccinations.

Polio occurs due to infection with the poliovirus, and the state health department notes the reaction to the virus varies significantly. among children, 72% of all polio cases show no symptoms. in 24% of instances, individuals experience a short flu-like condition. as many as 5% of cases result in meningitis, with symptoms lasting between two and ten days before full recovery occurs.

Polio-induced paralysis impacts approximately one out of every 200 individuals, with up to 10 percent of these cases resulting in death. As reported by the state health department, some affected persons might experience partial or complete recovery; however, they could encounter muscle discomfort, diminished strength, or even further paralysis during their lifetime due to post-polio syndrome.

Polio has no cure.

When is it required?

This immunization is mandatory for kids starting at child care centers, preschool, or pre-kindergarten. Students entering kindergarten or any subsequent grade level must also receive it, with their last shot needing to be administered on or after their fourth birthday.

Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR)

The MMR vaccination offers protection from three illnesses: measles, mumps, and rubella. According to The CDC states that children typically require two shots of the MMR vaccine to guard against all three illnesses. Many individuals who receive the MMR vaccination gain lifelong protection.

Measles leads to symptoms such as fever, a persistent cough, nasal congestion, and reddish, teary eyes, accompanied by a widespread skin rash. Additionally, it may result in convulsions, middle ear infections, lung inflammation, and digestive issues. In certain instances, measles can lead to neurological harm and, in severe cases, prove fatal.

Mumps may result in a fever, nasal discharge, and reddish, teary eyes along with a headache, body pains, decreased hunger, and enlarged salivary glands beneath the ears. In certain instances, mumps might cause hearing loss, inflammation of the brain or spine, uncomfortable swelling of the testicles or ovaries, and—though uncommonly—death.

Rubella leads to symptoms such as fever, skin rash, sore throat, headaches, and redness of the eyes. Moreover, it may result in joint pain for certain adolescents and adult females. If a pregnant woman gets infected with rubella, she might experience a spontaneous abortion, or her child could be born with serious developmental abnormalities.

When is it required?

Children who sign up for child care centers, preschool, or pre-kindergarten require one dose. Students entering kindergarten need two doses, just like those enrolling in grades outside of kindergarten.

As another option instead of the MMR vaccination, the state health department will also recognize a positive serology result, indicating the existence of antibodies in the bloodstream. The year the test was conducted must be recorded.

*Haemophilus* (Hib, referring to *Haemophilus influenzae* serotype b)

The Haib vaccine provides protection against type B bacteria. Haemophilus influenzae which is among the six types of the virus. It's the only type That is preventable through vaccination, as stated by the state health department.

Prior to the development of vaccines, according to the Tennessee Department of Health, the B strain of this flu virus was responsible for most cases of bacterial meningitis and other severe illnesses among children under five years of age.

As per the CDC, the signs of influenza Type B vary depending on which part of the body is affected. In certain severe instances, these infections may lead to lasting health issues or even result in fatalities. Typically, the symptoms resemble those seen in other bacterial infections impacting areas like the ears, lungs, or blood. Among the potential long-term complications are neurological impairment or deafness associated with meningitis, as well as possible amputation resulting from an infection in the bloodstream.

When is it required?

The Tennessee Department of Health mandates that children entering daycare centers, preschools, or kindergarten programs must receive the vaccine for Haemophilus influenzae type B – specifically for those under five years of age.

Hepatitis A

The state health department states that the hepatitis A vaccine offers the most effective defense against hepatitis A. The virus spreads between individuals through oral intake and contact with contaminated waste. For example, if an individual carrying the virus fails to clean their hands using soap and water, the virus may remain on their hands and potentially transfer to others.

Hepatitis A refers to liver inflammation triggered by a viral infection. Although people of all ages can be affected, it tends to occur more frequently among kids and younger individuals. The symptoms often develop quickly and might include fever, feelings of sickness, vomiting, reduced hunger, and stomach discomfort. Occasionally, patients could experience darker-than-usual urine, pale stools, and yellowing of the skin or eyes.

When signs of illness become evident, there is currently no particular drug, antibiotic, or therapy available to completely treat the condition. However, medications may be used to manage symptoms such as dehydration or nausea. In some cases, physicians may advise patients to get plenty of rest and make changes to their eating habits to ease discomfort.

When is it required?

Kindergarten students must receive two doses of the Hepatitis A vaccine, with at least six to 18 months between each dose. Alternatively, Tennessee allows acceptance of a positive blood test result, along with the date it was conducted.

Hepatitis B (HBV)

The hepatitis B vaccination provides protection from hepatitis B which spreads via direct contact with body fluids of an individual carrying the virus.

Similar to hepatitis A, hepatitis B also impacts the liver. The infection may be either short-term or long-lasting, according to the CDC. says Approximately half of individuals living with hepatitis B are unaware they have the infection. It’s possible to carry the virus without experiencing any symptoms, although when present, signs may consist of: dark urine or pale stools, tiredness, fever, muscle aches, reduced hunger, vomiting, and yellowing of the skin or eyes.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises individuals who have been diagnosed with either acute or chronic hepatitis B to consult a physician experienced in treating infectious diseases, liver conditions, or gastrointestinal disorders for ongoing monitoring of liver health. Those experiencing an acute hepatitis B infection might be advised to get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and maintain proper nourishment; however, there is currently no treatment available for chronic hepatitis B.

When is it required?

Children who go to daycare facilities, preschool, or pre-kindergarten must receive the full hepatitis B vaccination schedule or provide laboratory proof of immunity or prior infection. This requirement applies to all children entering kindergarten or any grade level outside of kindergarten. Another option is a positive blood test result, provided the date of the test is recorded.

Varicella (VAR, for chickenpox)

The varicella vaccine guards against chickenpox. According to the CDC, receiving two shots of the immunization helps prevent this illness. Occasionally, the varicella shot is administered together with the MMR vaccine as part of an MMRV formulation. Many individuals who receive the vaccination remain protected indefinitely. If someone does contract chickenpox despite being vaccinated, their symptoms tend to be less severe.

Chickenpox is characterized "A skin condition characterized by itchy, blister-like sores filled with fluid that later form crusts," according to the CDC. The rash can initially appear on the face, back, and torso before spreading across the entire body. It usually takes around seven days for all the blisters to develop into scabs. Individuals may have symptoms such as a fever, fatigue, headaches, or decreased hunger approximately one to two days prior to the onset of the distinctive rash.

Certain individuals who have been vaccinated might still contract chickenpox, known as breakthrough cases. Typically, these instances result in less severe symptoms and a shorter duration of illness.

Potential complications may arise from chickenpox, such as bacterial skin infections among kids, lung inflammation, brain swelling, blood-related issues, and infections in the bloodstream. Moreover, individuals who have previously contracted chickenpox face an increased likelihood of... shingles Since the varicella-zoster virus remains in the body permanently, shingles—according to the CDC—is an uncomfortable skin condition triggered by the virus becoming active again as one ages. It may also lead to issues such as persistent nerve discomfort.

When is it required?

Children aged 12 months and above who are starting at childcare centers, preschools, or pre-kindergarten must receive one dose of the varicella vaccine, which should be given not less than four days prior to their first birthday. Alternatively, having had chickenpox can serve as proof. For students enrolled in grades from kindergarten through twelfth grade, two doses of the vaccine or a confirmed medical record indicating they've had the illness is required.

Pneumococcus (PCV, associated with pneumonic infections)

PCV guards against pneumococcal illness, known as pneumococcal pneumonia. The vaccination also offers protection from severe diseases caused by pneumococcal infections, which occur when bacteria enter areas of the body that should be germ-free, such as the blood.

The microorganisms responsible for pneumococcal pneumonia can cause Numerous kinds of infections exist, with symptoms differing based on which area of the body is affected. Symptoms may manifest between one to three days after infection. Signs of pneumococcal pneumonia might involve chest discomfort, a persistent cough, elevated temperature along with shivering, and trouble breathing.

Pneumococcal meningitis may also result from such bacterial illnesses. This condition involves an infection affecting the membranes surrounding the brain and spine. Common signs consist of disorientation, elevated temperature, head pain, increased sensitivity to light, and a rigid neck. In some cases, it might lead to delayed development or impairment of hearing. The illness proves deadly for approximately one out of twelve children and one out of six individuals aged older adults.

Pneumococcal bacteremia refers to an infection in the blood triggered by this particular bacteria, with possible signs such as shivering, high temperature, and reduced awareness. In severe cases, it may lead to limb amputation. Approximately 1 out of every 30 children and roughly 1 out of every 8 adults succumb to this kind of infection.

Milder cases could appear as ear infections or nasal passage infections.

When is it required?

Tennessee mandates this vaccination solely for kids entering childcare centers, preschool, and kindergarten programs who are under five years of age. Additionally, the CDC advises this specific shot for adults aged fifty and above.

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With regard to minimum ages or dosing schedules for these vaccinations, Tennessee adheres to the recommendations issued by the CDC. For additional details about vaccines based on age, you may visit follow this link Refer to the CDC's recommendations regarding vaccinations and immunization procedures. Should you have any inquiries or worries concerning a particular vaccination, it is advised that you consult with your physician, another qualified healthcare practitioner, or a vaccination administrator.

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