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 Maine, state law requires children to be vaccinated against certain diseases as a condition for attending public and private schools, as well as daycare facilities. These vaccines typically include immunizations against diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, and others as determined by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services. Maine provides medical exemptions for children who cannot be vaccinated due to medical contraindications as certified by a licensed physician. Additionally, Maine used to allow non-medical exemptions for religious or philosophical reasons, but as of September 1, 2021, these non-medical exemptions are no longer permitted following the passage of a law in 2019 that removed such exemptions. Parents and guardians are required to keep track of their children's vaccination records, as schools and childcare facilities will require proof of immunization. For specific vaccine requirements and any updates to the regulations, it is advisable to contact the school or childcare facility directly or reach out to the Maine Immunization Program or the state health department.