Prince George's Co. students face immunization deadline

CHEVERLY, Md. - Nearly 3,000 children in Prince George's County have not received vaccinations that are required under Maryland law.

Starting Oct. 1, students will not be allowed in class if they don't get the vaccinations. Maryland updated its immunization rules for kindergartners for chickenpox, and seventh graders must get shots for meningitis and tetanus.

Keesha Bullock with Prince George's County Public Schools says they've sent letters and warned parents for months.

"Unfortunately, on October 1st, they will not be allowed to go back to school," said Bullock.

This is happening as the school system's health director, Dr. Angela Wakhweya, is on administrative leave. School officials say it's unrelated.

"We are not giving out information. It's a personnel issue," said Bullock.

"Has that affected these immunizations at all?" FOX 5's Tom Fitzgerald asked.

"I don't think so," Bullock replied.

To accommodate parents, the health center in Cheverly stayed open late Tuesday night and will be open until 6 p.m. Wednesday.