School vaccine requirement expanding in Illinois

SPRINGFIELD -- Junior high and high school students will be required to receive a booster shot against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis for next school year.

The Illinois State Board of Health recently approved the expanded requirement for the Tdap (TEE'-dap) vaccine, which was recommended by the state health and education officials.

Students must either show proof of having received the vaccination, must have an appointment to get it or have an approved medical or religious exemption on file.

Illinois Department of Public Health Director LaMar Hasbrouck says the new requirement can help slow an increase in pertussis cases. Last year, Illinois required sixth and ninth grade students to receive the Tdap vaccine.

Pertussis is also known as whooping cough.