With the beginning of school only weeks away, it’s time to pack those bags and gather all the essentials to start the school year off right. While you’re busy gathering everything your child needs, don’t overlook one crucial aspect: ensuring their health is up-to-date. This means scheduling a check-up to confirm they’ve received all the required vaccinations, regardless of the educational level they are entering.
You must provide proof of their vaccination records to enroll your child in school. Most vaccinations your child needs are administered before they turn two; however, additional doses, such as boosters, are necessary as they age. If your child is entering kindergarten, they must get the tetanus and whooping cough booster, polio booster, measles-mumps-rubella booster, and chickenpox booster vaccines. But how do you know when to get that extra boost?
Keeping Vaccine Records Up-to-Date
It is important to keep your child’s vaccine records updated for your peace of mind and to protect them. Each child is given a vaccine card at birth, which should be brought to every well-child visit. This card holds your vaccination history from infant to adult. This allows healthcare providers to review and ensure the records are current. Mismatches between school records and those at the doctor’s office can cause issues, so ensure the information aligns. You can always request a copy of your child’s vaccine records from your doctor to provide to the school if needed.
What Vaccines Does My Child Need?
To ensure your child has their vaccinations, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides a detailed immunization schedule for children, updated annually.
The schedule is divided into age-specific recommendations for vaccines, including:
Birth to 6 Years
● Birth: Hepatitis B (HepB)
● 1–2 Months: HepB, DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis), Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b), IPV (Inactivated Poliovirus), PCV13 (Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine), RV (Rotavirus)
● 4–6 Months: DTaP, Hib, IPV, PCV13, RV
● 6–18 Months: HepB, DTaP, Hib, IPV, PCV13, RV
● 12–15 Months: Hib, PCV13, MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella), VAR (Varicella), HepA (Hepatitis A)
● 15–18 Months: DTaP
● 18–24 Months: HepA
● 4–6 Years: DTaP, IPV, MMR, VAR
7–18 Years
● 11–12 Years: Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis), MCV4 (Meningococcal conjugate), HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
● 16 Years: MCV4 (booster)
You can check the CDC’s official website or consult a healthcare provider for the most current and detailed schedule
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What to Do If Vaccine Records Are Missing or You’re New to the Country?
Misplacing or losing vaccination records can happen, and if you can’t find your personal or doctor’s records, your child may need to receive some vaccines again. While not ideal, it’s safe to repeat vaccines. Sometimes, a doctor can perform blood tests to check for immunity to certain diseases. If you don’t have a written record of your child’s vaccines, your doctor can assist by retrieving records from previous healthcare providers.
For new families that have moved to the U.S., the vaccinations they received from their previous home are usually accepted as long as they meet the U.S. schedule. Countries like Mexico, Canada, and many in Central and South America follow similar vaccination guidelines, so the records from those countries are generally accepted. However, ensure you have full documentation of the dates the vaccines were given.
Vaccination Exemptions
Some exemptions from state or local vaccination requirements may apply to certain children. All states and the District of Columbia allow medical exemptions for children with conditions that prevent them from receiving vaccines. Most states also offer nonmedical exemptions for religious or philosophical reasons, except for three states.
To obtain an exemption, you must provide the appropriate form to the school, which will be kept in your child’s permanent record. If you choose not to vaccinate your child, pediatricians will continue to discuss the benefits and risks at each visit, especially if your child’s health changes.
Medical exemptions from vaccinations are generally uncommon but may be necessary in certain situations. For example, a medical exemption might be required if a child experiences a severe, life-threatening reaction to a vaccine or is undergoing medical treatments like chemotherapy. Your doctor can provide the appropriate documentation to obtain the exemption in these cases.
Starting the School Year Right
While a new backpack and pencils are important for the school year, preparing for school registration and ensuring your child’s vaccinations are up-to-date is equally essential. Consult your doctor if you’re unsure about your child’s vaccination status. They can guide on what vaccinations are needed and address any concerns about exemptions. Your child’s health should be a top priority for their well-being and the safety of those around them. Before sending them off to school, ensure they are healthy so they can enjoy a new year of wonder and learning.
Sources
CDC: Staying Up to Date with Your Vaccine Records
CDC: What is an Exemption and What Does it Mean?
CDC: Recommended Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule for ages 18 years or younger; 2024 U.S.
