What vaccinations do Junior High Students need?

Question sent in from parent:

After all of this talk about vaccines and immunizations, I just heard that my daughter needs more immunizations before junior high. This cannot be true, can it?

My answer:

It is true. As of 1999, all students need 3 doses of the hepatitis B vaccine and a second MMR dose before entering seventh grade. In order to complete the hepatitis B series, which takes 4-6 months, students need to start these vaccinations when they are in 6^th grade. Some exemptions are made for medical reasons or personal beliefs. Check to see which vaccinations your daughter has already completed and which she will need before next year. Your daughter’s school should have more information on this for you.