Health Officials Proposed Immunization Changes

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- The Minnesota Department of Health is proposing some changes to the school immunization rules.

Health officials want to add the hepatitis A and B vaccine for children enrolled in child care or school-based early childhood learning programs. They would also replace the 7th grade tetanus-diphtheria vaccine with one that also includes pertussis. And, health officials propose requiring a meningococcal vaccination beginning in 7th grade.

State infectious disease director Kristen Ehresmann says the changes are recommended by the Centers for Disease Control's immunization advisory committee.

The department plans to adopt the changes without a public hearing, but would hold one if 25 or more people request it in writing. The changes would take effect beginning in September 2014.

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