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Tdap (Whooping Cough) Booster Shot

If your child is entering grade 7 in the fall, or is new to the school district and is in grade 7-12, a California school immunization law (AB 354) requires your child to have proof of a whooping cough booster shot (also called Tdap) in order to attend school.

Whooping Cough

Whooping cough is the common name for pertussis, a highly contagious respiratory tract infection. Pertussis is marked by a severe, hacking cough followed by a high-pitched intake of breath that sounds like "whoop." Whooping cough has been on the rise, causing many California school-aged children to get sick.

If Your Child Needs a Tdap Booster Shot

Bring your child to his or her healthcare provider for the Tdap vaccine
Or you many call either 311or (800) 300-9950 for assistance finding a doctor or clinic
Once your child has received the booster shot, bring a copy of the Tdap immunization record to your child's school office between August 1-12, before school starts, so it can be recorded

For more information, please visit the San Francisco Dept of Public Health Tdap website here.

Where to get the Booster Shot

Before you arrive:
- Be sure your child has eaten
- Bring your child’s immunization record with you

Adult Immunization and Travel Clinic: Drop in visitors are seen on a first-come, first-served basis. Click here for hours and location information.
Cole Street Health Center: 555 Cole Street, San Francisco, (415) 751-8181
-By appointment only (often same or next day)
-Must be accompanied by parent/guardian
Maxine Hall Health Center: 1301 Pierce Street, San Francisco,
(415) 292-1300
-Cost: sliding scale fee
Call for Immunization Drop-in Hours
Castro Mission Health Center: 3850 17th Street, San Francisco,
(415) 934-7700
-RN Clinics on Thursday and Fridays, by appointment only.
-Must be accompanied by parent/guardian

Pharmacies: Many local pharmacies offer Tdap (whooping cough) vaccine on a walk-in basis for a fee. If your child does not have a doctor, a pharmacy near you may be a good option. The cost at most pharmacies is usually between $60 and $70.

For more information, please visit the San Francisco Dept of Public Health Tdap website here.