Dist. 197 Students Face 'No Shots, No School' Policy

With increased rates of pertussis, or whooping cough, raising the alarm in metro area counties, back-to-school vaccinations may be more important than ever.

The number of pertussis cases diagnosed in 2012 has already more than doubled all the cases diagnosed in 2011, according to the Minnesota Center for Disease Control. There have been 133 cases of pertussis diagnosed in Dakota County this year.

Here's what you need to know:

The has a "No Shots, No School" policy. Exemptions may be made in the case of medical contraindications or "conscientiously held beliefs." 

Most students will receive vaccinations against hepatitis B, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, measles, mumps, rubella, Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) and chicken pox during their school years. (See attached PDF for schedule of immunizations)

Reduced-Fee Immunizations

For families that might have difficulty paying for these vaccinations, Dakota County Public Health is offering reduced-fee immunizations through August for those eligible for Minnesota Vaccines for Children (MnVFC) vaccine.

Immunizations cost $14 but if a person who is eligible is not able to pay the fee they can still be immunized.

Persons with private insurance coverage that covers immunizations are not eligible for MnVFC vaccine and should contact their private medical provider.

Some vaccines are available for a fee for persons who do not qualify for MnVFC vaccine. Call 952-891-7528 for information on vaccines and cost. 

MnVFC Eligibility Guidelines

• Children (18 years of age and younger ) who do not have health insurance
• Children on a Minnesota Health Care Program - MA, MnCare, or PMAP (Please bring your medical card)
• Children who are American Indian or Alaskan Native
• Children who have health insurance that does not cover vaccinations
• Children who have health insurance with an unmet deductible
• Adults (19 and older) may qualify for some vaccinations; check the Dakota County website and search Vaccines for Adults or call 952-891-7528 for eligibility guidelines and vaccine availability. 

Dakota County reminds parents that immunizations given at public clinics should not be substituted for routine well-child visits. Parents are also encouraged to bring all immunization records with them to the clinic.  

Minors under the age of 18 years must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian and credit and debit cards are not accepted.

August Clinics:

• Aug. 16 (walk-in from 4-5:45 p.m.)Dakota County Northern Service Center in West St. Paul
• Aug. 21 (walk-in from 4-6:30 p.m.) Dakota County Western Service Center in Apple Valley