Massachusetts this week ordered all students 6 months and older to receive the flu vaccine this year, in which state public health officials called “an important step in reducing flu-related illness and the overall impact of respiratory illness during the COVID-19 pandemic. “
The requirement applies to all children 6 months of age or older who attend child care, daycare, or preschool in Bay State, as well as K-12 students and those enrolled in various colleges and universities in Massachusetts, including all international students.
CALIFORNIA SEES FIRST MALE PLAGUE CASE IN 5 YEARS
All students must be vaccinated by Dec. 31, public health officials said in a news release.
All students must be vaccinated by Dec. 31, public health officials said.
(iStock)
“Every year, thousands of people of all ages are affected by the flu, leading to many hospitalizations and deaths,” said Drs. Larry Madoff, the medical director of the department’s Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Sciences, in a statement. “It is now more important than ever to get a flu vaccine because flu symptoms are very similar to those of COVID-19 and preventing the flu will save lives and save resources.”
However, there are some exemptions for the mandate, such as for medical or religious reasons.
“Also exempt are K-12 students who are home care and higher education students who are completely off-campus and only engaged in distance education,” per the release.
“It is now more important than ever to get a flu vaccine because flu symptoms are very similar to those of COVID-19 and preventing the flu will save lives and save resources.”
Some college and university students are also excused, though only if they “attend online lessons exclusively and never attend campus in person” But if one of those students attends a class or activity on campus – even once, officials warn – they should also vaccinated at the end of the year.
“This new requirement for influenza immunization to go to school in January is in addition to the existing vaccine requirements for all those attending child care, kindergarten, K-12, and colleges and universities in Massachusetts. Primary and secondary students in districts and schools who use a distance learning model are not exempt, “officials added.
THIRD CASE OF MOSQUITO-BORNE EEE VIRUS REPORTS IN MASSACHUSETTS: OFFICIALS
A second dose of the flu vaccine may be recommended for some children “depending on the child’s age and vaccination history,” but “the second dose is not required for school entry,” per release.
All of the immunization requirements for the upcoming school year in Massachusetts can be found here.
