VAX TO SCHOOL & HAWAII BAPTIST ACADEMY – WINNERS!

HONOLULU - The Department of Health congratulates Hawaii Baptist Academy’s 6^th graders on their immunization achievement! They are the first group of Oahu 6^th graders to have completed their vaccination requirements to enter 7^th grade, and, in doing so, have won themselves a Subway party. The Department of Health, in partnership with Hawaiian Island Creations, Subway Restaurants, and public and private schools statewide are rewarding students who turn in their 7^th Grade Student Immunization Record (yellow card) before the end of the current school year.

As part of the Vax to School Project, all students receive surf stickers from Hawaiian Island Creations for turning in their yellow cards before the May 3^rd deadline. In addition, classes like the ones at Hawaii Baptist Academy that have 100% of their yellow cards turned in, receive a party from Subway Restaurants.

Hawaii Baptist Academy’s three 6^th grade homeroom class parties will be held on February 24^th. The students hope that this will set an example for 6th grades at other schools to turn in their yellow cards early. "We were glad to participate in the Vax To School program to increase awareness among our parents and to optimize the health and welfare of our students," said Phyllis Kamala, R.N., Hawaii Baptist Academy School Nurse.

Hawaii law requires all students entering 7^th grade to have documentation of the following vaccinations:

• 3 Hepatitis B
• 2 MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella)
• 1 or 2 Varicella (Chickenpox)

Students must comply with these school immunization requirements or show documentation that they are in the process of completing the requirements before they will be allowed to attend seventh grade.

For more information visit www.vaxtoschool.com or call the Hawaii Immunization Branch at 586-8323. Neighbor island calls are toll-free at 1-800-933-4832.

Judy Strait-Jones
Public Health Educator, Immunization Branch
Phone: (808) 586-8321
Email: Judy Strait-Jones@mail.health.state.hi.us

Laura M. Lott
Department of Health
Communications Office
Phone: (808) 586-4418
Email: lmlott@mail.health.state.hi.us