news-record.com

What? Students without proof of Tdap vaccination will not be allowed to attend classes beginning Thursday.

Parents who cite religious beliefs for not vaccinating their child can gain an exception.

Why? Tdap inoculates against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis, known as whooping cough

Who’s affected? State law requires every sixth-grader entering school after Aug. 1, or any student who turned 12 on or after that date, to receive a Tdap booster if five or more years have passed since the student last received that vaccine. As of Monday, 542 Guilford County Schools students still needed to provide Tdap vaccination information.

Where you can get the shot: Families can get the Tdap booster at the Guilford County Health Department. To make an appointment call 641-5563 for the Greensboro office or 845-7655 for the High Point office.

The shot is also available at most private practices.

Cost: The Tdap booster is free from the county health department.

More information: www.gcsnc.com/parents/tdap.htm