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 Florida, the Department of Health is responsible for establishing the immunization requirements for children's enrollment and attendance in public and private schools, as well as childcare facilities. Florida law requires certain vaccines for children to attend school, which includes but is not limited to vaccines for measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (DTaP), polio, and varicella (chickenpox). While medical exemptions are allowed for children who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons, Florida also permits religious exemptions for families whose religious beliefs conflict with immunization. However, Florida does not allow for philosophical exemptions for vaccinations. Parents or guardians must provide schools and childcare facilities with their child's immunization records as proof of vaccination. Enforcement mechanisms are in place to ensure compliance with these requirements. For detailed information on specific vaccine requirements and exemptions, parents should contact the Florida Department of Health or the school or childcare facility their child will be attending.