Before the start of the 2021-22 school year, all students entering or transferring into 11th grade are required to provide proof that they received a meningococcal booster vaccine (MCV4) on or after their 16th birthday. This is now a state-required vaccination. MCV4 vaccines must be documented on Georgia Form 3231 Certificate of Immunization. Note that rising juniors who are not 16 years old should wait to get the vaccine until their 16th birthday. This booster vaccine is in addition to the MCV4 vaccine that is required for students prior to beginning 7th grade. Meningococcal disease is a serious bacterial illness that affects the brain and the spinal cord. Meningitis can cause shock, coma and death within hours of the first symptoms.

Rising juniors who are not yet 16 should wait until their birthday to get the booster. Georgia law requires students to be vaccinated against this disease unless they have a documented exemption.

Students can get vaccinations and certificates of immunization from their private physician or should contact the Northeast Health District.