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 New York State, children enrolled in public, private, and day care facilities are required to receive vaccinations as mandated by state law. These vaccinations are intended to protect against diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, polio, and others. New York provides medical exemptions for children who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons as certified by a physician. Additionally, as of June 2019, New York no longer allows religious exemptions for vaccine requirements for schoolchildren. Parents and guardians are responsible for keeping an up-to-date record of their child's vaccinations, as schools and childcare facilities require proof of immunization for attendance. To understand the specific vaccine requirements, parents should contact the school or childcare facility directly or refer to the New York State Department of Health for the state's immunization program guidelines.