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 Kentucky, state law requires children to be vaccinated against certain diseases as a condition for enrollment and attendance at public and private schools, as well as childcare facilities. These vaccines typically include polio, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, measles, mumps, rubella, hepatitis B, and varicella, among others. Kentucky law provides for medical exemptions to these requirements if a licensed physician certifies that a vaccine is contraindicated for a child. Additionally, Kentucky allows for religious exemptions if the parent or guardian submits a sworn statement objecting to vaccination on religious grounds. However, Kentucky does not offer exemptions for philosophical reasons. Schools and childcare facilities are responsible for enforcing vaccination requirements and maintaining records of immunizations. Parents should keep an updated record of their child's vaccinations and be prepared to provide this information to the school or childcare facility. For detailed information on specific vaccine requirements and exemptions in Kentucky, parents should contact the Kentucky Immunization Program or the Kentucky Department for Public Health.