DOH urges parents to schedule well-child visits for incoming 7th graders

The Hawaiʻi Department of Health is encouraging parents of students entering seventh grade in the upcoming school year to schedule well-child visits and vaccinations as soon as possible.

Hawaiʻi law requires all students to submit official documentation to their school showing they have received required vaccinations and a physical exam before the first day of classes.

By seventh grade, students must be vaccinated against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (Tdap); meningococcal disease (MCV); and human papillomavirus (HPV). The Department of Health says staying current on immunizations helps protect children and prevents disease outbreaks in schools.

“Staying current with immunizations safeguards children and helps prevent disease outbreaks in schools, contributing to overall health,” the department said in a release.

Vaccinations are critical because immunity from earlier doses given in kindergarten may have waned, and older children are eligible for additional protection against other diseases.

Health officials noted:

• Tetanus enters through cuts or wounds and causes painful muscle stiffness; one case was reported in Hawaiʻi in 2019.
• Diphtheria is spread through respiratory fluids and can cause breathing difficulties, heart failure, paralysis or death; no cases have been reported in the state in the past 10 years.
• Pertussis, or “whooping cough,” causes violent coughing fits; three cases were reported in Hawaiʻi in 2023 with one death, rising to 95 cases and another death in 2024.
• Meningococcal disease is rare but can spread in group settings like dorms and cause meningitis; one case was reported in Hawaiʻi last year.
• HPV is spread through skin-to-skin contact and can lead to several types of cancer; vaccination is recommended before exposure to prevent infection.

Students new to Hawaiʻi schools must also complete a tuberculosis (TB) clearance form with their healthcare provider.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children and youth have a well-child visit with their healthcare provider at least once a year.

Parents are encouraged to contact their child’s healthcare provider to schedule an appointment. Families needing help connecting with a provider can call Aloha United Way at 211.

More information about Hawaiʻi’s school health requirements is available at www.VaxToSchoolHawaii.com.