Hepatitis B Infections

March 31, 2005

Dear Parent or Guardian:

This letter is to inform you of a new state law requiring students to be immunized to provide protection from hepatitis B infections. Usually three shots are required to complete the hepatitis B vaccination series.

 HEA 1133 was passed in the 2004 state legislative session. It requires that every child in Indiana who enters grade 9 and grade 12 be immunized against hepatitis B. This law becomes effective July 1, 2005 and is in effect until July 1, 2008 .

Please contact your local school corporation to find out how this new requirement is being managed in the school(s) that your child or children attend. The school nurse will be familiar with this vaccination requirement and can answer any questions that you may have. Hepatitis B vaccine is available from your local health department, clinic, or your child’s physician.

Thank you for your cooperation in keeping the students of Indiana protected against hepatitis B infection.

Sincerely,

Charlene Graves, M.D.
Medical Director, Immunization Program
Indiana State Department of Health

Phyllis J. Lewis, M.S.N., R.N.
Coordinator of Health Services
Indiana Department of Education