Resources for Parents

• You can find parent letters in multiple languages on our website. These help inform families and staff about potential exposure to different communicable diseases.
• When to keep your child home from school.
• When is your child too sick for school?
• Vaccine resources for birth to 6 years.
• Free vaccine locations for kids.

Protect against Pertussis (Whooping Cough)

Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious illness that causes a severe cough and may last for months. It can be especially dangerous in infants and young children. Vaccination is the best protection against whooping cough.

• Children and adolescents should be up to date on pertussis-containing vaccines (DTap, Tdap).
• Adults should get a booster of Tdap every 10 years.
• Pregnant people should get Tdap vaccine during the third trimester.

What if I think I have Pertussis?

• Your healthcare provider can test with a swab and prescribe the right medication.
• Isolate at home while on a 5-day course of antibiotics.
• You can return to work and school on the sixth day.

Flu, COVID-19, and RSV continue to circulate. It’s not too late to get vaccines!

Vaccines are safe and effective. It is safe to get multiple vaccines at the same time.

• Everyone 6 months and older should get an annual flu and COVID-19 vaccine.
• RSV immunization is available to older adults, pregnant people, babies, and some toddlers.

• It is especially important for people at high risk to get vaccinated.

• For more information, resources, and local data on respiratory diseases, check out our website.

Where to find vaccines:

• Many pharmacies and select doctors’ offices offer vaccines. Call ahead for availability.
• For vaccine clinics and events, visit the Kid's Vaccine Page and Adult Vaccine Page.
• To find COVID-19 vaccine visit the COVID-19 vaccine finder for locations.

Ways to prevent the spread of respiratory disease:

• Get vaccinated.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes.
• Wash your hands.
• Wear a mask around those most vulnerable and in crowded indoor spaces.
• Limit time around sick people.
• If you are sick, stay home.