School immunization requirements change slightly
ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, Ind. -- There are two new changes to the vaccination requirements for Indiana students. The changes affect students going into kindergarten and students beginning their senior year of high school.
The beginning of the school year is quickly approaching.
"I can't believe it's here already. It was a fast summer, but we're excited though because we're heading into that senior year and getting ready to go back to school," said Dave Follis.
Michaela Gilmore, Follis' daughter, is getting ready to start her senior year.
"A lot of nerves because it's almost over and starting to apply for colleges so it's a lot of pressure," said Gilmore.
He's doing what he can to get her ready.
"It's a lot of back to school shopping and the doctor visits and things like that to make sure everything is up and school physicals and things like that," said Follis.
This year there's one more item to mark off his checklist. This one is required by the state of Indiana.
"If it's based on the science there it's definitely a great idea," said Follis.
Seniors must get a second dose of the meningitis vaccine.
Doctors found the first dose, given in sixth grade, can wear off by the time your teen is in high school.
"I hate to see any of the kids get sick or anything like that and if there is new information about the initial vaccination wearing off, we definitely want her to be safe and protected," said Follis.
Gilmore is going to the doctor tomorrow.
"These are the things that need to be done and that was the shot that needed to get done," said Gilmore.
Then she can add another checkmark to her 'to do' list.
"I don't exactly like shots but, so my mom made the appointment so I have to go get it done," said Gilmore.
Click here for Indiana's school immunization requirements for the 2014-2015 school year.
You can find more information on vaccinations in Indiana here
Click here for Michigan's school immunization requirements for the 2014-2015 school year.