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 Pennsylvania (PA), state law requires children to be immunized against certain diseases as a condition of enrollment and attendance at public, private, and day care facilities. The required vaccines typically include those for measles, mumps, rubella, polio, hepatitis B, and others, as determined by the Pennsylvania Department of Health. While medical exemptions are allowed for children with specific health conditions that contraindicate vaccinations, Pennsylvania also permits exemptions for religious beliefs, but not for philosophical reasons. Parents or guardians must keep accurate records of their children's vaccinations, as schools and childcare facilities will require proof of immunization. Enforcement mechanisms are in place to ensure compliance with these requirements. To obtain the most current and specific information regarding vaccine requirements and exemptions, parents should contact their child's school or childcare facility directly, or reach out to the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the state's immunization program.