Each state decides which vaccines are required for your child’s enrollment and attendance at a school in that state. These laws often apply not only to children attending public schools but also to those attending private schools and day care facilities.

All states provide medical exemptions, and some state laws also offer exemptions for religious or philosophical reasons. State laws also establish mechanisms for enforcement of school vaccination requirements and exemptions.

• Keep track of your child’s vaccine record, as schools and childcare facilities in your state may require proof of vaccination.

• Talk to a staff member to learn what vaccines the school or childcare facility requires. They will be able to provide you with specific information about their requirements.

• If you would like to know your state’s immunization requirements, contact your state’s immunization program or state health department.

In Colorado, state law requires children to be vaccinated against certain diseases to enroll in public, private schools, and child care facilities. These requirements are in place to protect the health of all students and the community at large. Colorado provides medical exemptions for children who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons. Additionally, the state allows for non-medical exemptions based on religious or personal beliefs. However, recent changes in the law have made the process for obtaining non-medical exemptions more stringent. Parents or guardians must submit a certificate of non-medical exemption, which requires completion of an online education module about the benefits and risks of immunization or a certificate signed by a health care provider. Enforcement mechanisms are in place to ensure compliance with these requirements, and schools and childcare facilities are responsible for verifying students' immunization status. Parents should keep an updated record of their child's vaccinations and consult with the school or childcare facility to understand the specific vaccines required. For detailed information on Colorado's immunization requirements, individuals should contact the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment or the state's immunization program.