New Vaccination To Be Required In 1997

Beginning in 1997, vaccinations for hepatitis B will be required for children attending Washington’s public schools, the state Board of Health has decided.

The decision Wednesday brings to nine the number of immunizations required for state schools, board spokesman David Albert said. It won’t be required for children already in school, but will be for students new to the system born in 1992 or later.

Hepatitis B is a virus that attacks the liver and can cause prolonged illness or death. It is transmitted through bodily fluids. There is no cure.

Children now must be immunized against mumps, measles and rubella; diphtheria, whooping cough and tetanus; polio, and haemophilus influenza type B.