Immunizations

Immunizations are an excellent way to protect yourself and your family against many diseases. Age-appropriate immunizations start at birth and continues through adulthood. Your healthcare provider can help you determine which immunizations are needed.

Immunizations are required by state law for all children at any grade, kindergarten through grade 12, including all public, private, parochial or nonpublic school, as well as vocational, intermediate, special education, home education, cyber and charter schools. Proof of immunization must be shown before they can attend school.

 

Immunization Exemptions

By law, only licensed medical doctors, doctors of osteopathy or their designees can sign for medical exemptions. A medical exemption for a specific antigen(s) should be documented in the statement of exemption state card.  All other immunizations are still required.

Statements of religious or strong moral or ethical conviction opposing immunizations must be submitted in writing and signed by the parent, guardian or emancipated child. A space on the State’s Certificate of Immunization if provided for this purpose. This exemption does not need to be renewed yearly.