Immunization Information

Immunization Requirements

Why Are Immunizations Necessary?

Children who are not completely immunized when they enter schools are left unprotected at a time when exposure to vaccine preventable diseases is most likely to occur. These diseases can lead to deafness, developmental disabilities, hearing loss and even death. Unless immunization levels remain high, outbreak can occur. if an outbreak does occur, un-immunized students may be excluded from school until the outbreaks subsides.

Immunization should start in early infancy and continue through early childhood. If this is done, only boosters are necessary at school entrance. Many colleges and universities also require proof of immunizations. The need for some immunizations continues throughout life. For example, older students and adults need a  booster dose of TDaP.  To schedule and receive immunizations for you or your family, contact your doctor, HMO or local health department. Your cooperation is appreciated. After immunizations are administered, submit the Student Immunization Record to the school district within thirty days of admission. The Student Immunization Record form is available below.

Vaccine Exemptions

Exemption from receiving vaccines may be obtained for medical, religious, or personal conviction reasons. A physician must sign the medical waiver; a parent, guardian or adult student must sign religious and personal conviction waivers. Should there be an outbreak of vaccine-preventable disease, the Department of Health and Social Services may direct schools to exclude un-immunized students and those who have waivers on file. Students may remain excluded until the outbreak subsides. Questions regarding this issue may be addressed with the school nurse at 635-4347 ext 311

Meningitis Immunization Recommendation

Meningitis is a rare, but very serious illness.  This illness' with flu like symptoms makes diagnosis at first difficult.  If not treated early, meningitis can lead to severe and permanent disabilities, such as hearing loss, brain damage, seizures and death.  The ACIP recommends that all students between the age of 11-12 years of age recieve the new meningococcal conjugatal vaccine with a booster at age 16.  

If the first dose is given at age 13-16 a 1 time booster dose should be given between 16-18 years. If the first dose is given at 16 years or older, no booster is needed. The immunization may be otained from Columbia County Health and Human Services, at 2652 Murphy Street, Portage, phone 742-9227 or from your physician.

Student Immunization Law Age/Grade Requirements

The following are the minimum required immunizations for each age/grade level. It is not a recommended immunization schedule for infants and preschoolers. For that schedule, contact your doctor or local health department.