California ECE🛡️ Tdap Immunity Overview

What Is It & Why Is It Needed?

The Tdap vaccine protects against three serious diseases: Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Whooping Cough).

While you likely received a series of vaccines for these as a child, immunity wears off over time. Because Whooping Cough is highly contagious, most California school districts require educators to provide proof of a recent booster.

Why Zen Educate Requires It

All educators must provide proof of a Tdap booster. This helps reduce the risk of disease spreading when working closely with young children and infants – the most vulnerable population.

Under California law (SB 792), Tdap immunity is mandatory for all staff and volunteers in Early Childhood Education (ECE) and daycare settings. California does not accept religious or personal belief exemptions. Only a valid medical exemption from a licensed California physician (MD or DO) is accepted.

Doctors usually recommend a booster every 10 years so it is very likely you have this vaccination in your immunization records already!

✅ Understanding the Requirements

1. Tdap vs. DTaP

DTaP: Given to infants and children (ends around age 6).
Tdap: The booster given to teens (age 11+) and adults. You must specifically show a Tdap record.

2. Tdap Titer Tests

Recommendation: We do not recommend Titer Tests for Tdap.
Why? Titer tests for this vaccine are often more expensive than the shot itself. Additionally, many school districts specifically require the shot record because immunity to Pertussis is known to wane.

🏥 Where to Get the Tdap Vaccine

If You Have Insurance

Visit your primary care doctor or a local pharmacy (CVS, Walgreens). Tdap is usually covered as a preventative service with no co-pay.

If You’re Uninsured

Visit a community clinic or the California Department of Public Health local office.

California: Visit a Federally Qualified Health Center near you
LA County: Free and Low-Cost Immunization Clinics - LA County
San Diego County: Public Health Centers (Call ahead to confirm hours of operation, vaccines available, or questions about eligibility.)
Riverside: Free Vaccination Clinics

🧾 Records

After receiving the vaccine, request a Vaccination Administration Record to upload to your profile.