Hawaiian parents urged schedule health visits for seventh graders to avoid rush before school begins

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It is state law for all students entering seventh grade to have a physical exam and appropriate vaccines before the start of the academic year. | Adobe Stock

The Hawaii State Department of Health is reminding parents to have their incoming seventh graders vaccinated and physical exams completed before returning to school.

“Hawaii state law requires all students receive a physical exam and age appropriate immunizations before starting seventh grade,” the Hawaii State Department of Health said. “Parents of children who have not received a well-child visit and vaccinations within the past year are encouraged to contact their health care provider as soon as possible to schedule an appointment.”

Before the opening of the classes, documents should be submitted as proof that seventh-grade students have received the three required vaccines: human papillomavirus (HPV), meningococcal conjugate (MCV), and tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis (Tdap).

The vaccine is designed to support the immune system to build up antibodies that can protect a person from contracting a disease, or fight the disease If a person has been exposed or infected with the pathogen, according to Stanford Children’s Health.

Visit the Hawaii Department of Health school health requirements for further information and to know more about vaccine requirements for other levels.