The district received the H1N1 flu vaccine from the Harris County Public Health and Environmental Services (HCPHES) Department. The HCPHES approved the shot for all students and employees in the district. Tomball ISD asked for and received the vaccine from HCPHES at no expense to the district. Tomball ISD maintains an enrollment of 10,229 students, and employs 1,453 people.

Superintendent John Neubauer explained the H1N1 vaccine is not mandatory.

“This is an option we are offering to our students and employees as an attempt to maintain good health and wellness throughout the district, but is it not required for anyone to get the shot,” he said.

Shot clinics will be set up at every campus during the school day in December when the shots will be administered. A letter, along with additional information and a permission form, was sent home with every child in the district. If a parent wants their child to receive the shot, they are asked to return the form.

If a child has an allergy to eggs or has had previous problems after taking a vaccine, parents are asked to contact their child’s school nurse to discuss whether or not the vaccine should be taken. If there are additional questions, the school nurse will consult with the county health department’s medical director for guidance.

Director of Nursing Sandra Gann explained that parents are invited to be with their child when they receive the shot.

“Getting a shot can be a distressing event, especially for elementary students. A parent would be the best person to hold and comfort them during that time,” she said.

If it is not possible for a parent to be present, one of the nurses or a parent volunteer will hold and comfort elementary students. If a student of any age is too upset, struggles excessively or refuses the shot, the vaccine will not be given. Children through nine years of age should get two doses of the vaccine, about a month apart. Tomball ISD will also offer the second shot free.

Tomball ISD maintains a Flu Plan and tips for families to protect themselves during the flu season at www.tomballisd.net. Click the “For Parents” link on the upper right side of the Web site.

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