Vaccinations required for Fresno students before they can get back-to-school

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- The back to school list includes much more than just supplies and clothes this year. Valley parents need to know if their kids are up to date on their vaccinations as well.

Kids who haven't had all of their required shots won't be allowed in class. Those entering kindergarten need to be vaccinated against Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Hepatitis B, Chicken Pox, and Polio. Some kids might not be up to date for Measles, Mumps, and Rubella.

Fresno Unified Student Health Services Director Gail Williams said it's an important reminder for parents.

"So their kids day isn't being disrupted, they can be in class and parents aren't called saying we don't have everything we need."

No longer can parents refuse the vaccinations for personal or religious reasons. Peachwood Medical pediatrician Dr. Marty Martin has talked with many concerned parents.

"I think the thing that frustrates some of us the most is parents who have come in and have never talked with their medical doctor, or their provider, and have already made their decision because of what they've read on Facebook or on the internet."

Not many families in Fresno Unified have refused the vaccinations.

"It's a small percentage. I think district-wide we've always been less than 3-percent of families who have opted out," said Williams.

But some students can still be exempt from the shots.

"It really limits it more to medical reasons. Like I've had a couple of patients last couple of years that had leukemia, so they could not get immunized," said Dr. Martin.

Kids entering 7th grade will need a TDAP booster shot which includes the Pertussis or Whooping Cough vaccine. Kids can get their shots at their doctor's office, the Fresno County Health Department, and starting Monday, August 8th a clinic will be available at the district's Adult Transition Program Office located at 3132 East Fairmont.