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 South Carolina, state law requires children to be vaccinated against certain diseases as a condition for enrollment and attendance in public and private schools, as well as childcare facilities. These vaccinations typically include polio, measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis B, and varicella, among others. South Carolina provides medical exemptions for children who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons as certified by a licensed physician. The state also allows for religious exemptions if the parent or guardian signs a statement objecting to immunization on religious grounds. However, South Carolina does not offer philosophical exemptions for vaccinations. Enforcement of these requirements is typically managed through the school or childcare facility, which will request proof of immunization or proper exemption documentation upon enrollment. Parents and guardians should maintain an up-to-date vaccine record for their children and can obtain specific information about required vaccinations from the school or childcare facility their child will attend. For detailed information on immunization requirements, individuals should contact the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) or the state's immunization program.