Texas School Nurse Consultant - Hot Topics

Hot Topics

Hot Topics provides the latest information and resources impacting school nurses today.  Look for the following information in specific topic areas on this page:

1. Updates – Current, timely topic-specific information
2. Research – New and emerging statistical, evaluative and practice research as it is announced. 
3. Links – Connection to helpful Web sites, documents, organizations and other DSHS programs to assist in providing quality school health services.
   
   
   • Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
     
   • Changes to Immunization Requirements:

   The following is a highlight of revisions to rules for school and child-care facility immunization requirements: 

   1. Meningococcal Vaccine
      *Beginning SY 2009-10, 7th grade requirement
   2. Varicella Vaccine
      Beginning School Year (SY) 2009-10, 2 dose requirement for kindergarten and 7th grade entry;
   3. Tdap Vaccine
      Beginning SY 2009-10, a booster dose requirement for Tdap for 7th grade;
   4. MMR Vaccine
      Beginning SY 2009-10, 2 dose requirement of MMR vaccine for kindergarten entry;
   5. Hepatitis A Vaccine
      Beginning SY 2009-10, 2 dose requirement for kindergarten entry statewide
   6. General revisions incorporated that clarify or simplify language throughout the rules relating to the school and child care requirements.

   Information on immunizations and details on the changes can be found on the Immunization Branch’s Web site at www.dshs.state.tx.us/immunize/public.shtm.

   Last Updated July 14, 2009