The Implementation of State Required Adolescent Vaccines- Lessons Learned

Background: In 2009, Indiana lead the nation in halting emerging disease by amending State Law and requiring all adolescents in 6-12^th grade to be vaccinated against Pertussis (Whooping Cough), Meningitis, and Varicella (Chickenpox). Vaccines were required for school entry by the beginning of the 2010/2011 school year.

Setting: St. Joseph County Indiana. St. Joseph County has an estimated population of 267,613. It is estimated that the county has 26,500 students in grades 6-12. 25% of students were current on vaccinations with 75% needing the three state required vaccines.

Population: Adolescents grades 6-12

Project Description: The St. Joseph County Health Department began planning for the influx of students in the fall of 2009. Letters were sent to parents and physicians explaining the new requirements and parents were encouraged to have vaccinations done before the school year started. During the summer of 2010, the health department offered several free, after-hours clinics as well as extended hours in the regular vaccine clinic. However, these clinics were ill attended during this time frame and the local health department was overwhelmed the first 3 months of the school year resulting in an exhaustion of resources.

Results/Lessons Learned: During the implementation of the new vaccine requirement, several barriers were identified. Collaboration from the state health department with mass clinic planning and vaccine inventory management is crucial. A strong partnership between the health department and all school districts is essential for the communication of information to parents about new requirements. Support and collaboration with border counties was essential for resource sharing. In addition, Indiana is a home rule state which places additional barriers on reaching the target population.