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 Washington State, the Department of Health sets the immunization requirements for children attending both public and private schools, as well as child care facilities. These requirements are in place to help prevent the spread of contagious diseases. Washington State law allows for medical exemptions to school immunization requirements if a licensed healthcare provider certifies that a vaccine is not advisable for the child. Additionally, the state permits exemptions for personal or philosophical beliefs, as well as religious beliefs. Parents or guardians must provide schools and childcare facilities with proof of their child's immunization status, which is tracked on the Certificate of Immunization Status (CIS) form. Enforcement of these requirements is typically managed by the individual school or childcare facility, which may exclude children who are not in compliance with the state's immunization laws. To understand the specific vaccines required and the process for claiming an exemption, parents should contact the school or childcare facility directly or refer to the Washington State Department of Health's immunization program.