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IMMUNIZATIONS

Requiring “up-to-date” immunizations is a critical element in preventing illnesses.
Though immunization vaccines do provide protection, they do not provide immediate protection. They are given to help an individual develop immunity. The vaccines help the body develop the antibodies to fight the specific disease named in the immunization.

IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS

121A.15 HEALTH STANDARDS; IMMUNIZATIONS; SCHOOL CHILDREN. Subdivision 1. Minnesota Law requires all children enrolling in a licensed day care home or child care facility to show evidence of immunization, or properly document exemptions.

Legal exemptions are permissible for those who have medical contraindications to vaccine(s) or if they or a parent conscientiously holds beliefs that oppose required immunizations.

However, “exemption” does require the parent or legal guardian to complete Section C on the paper Immunization Record Form and have their signature notarized by a licensed notary.

Child Care Immunization Record [PDF]

DISEASES PREVENTED BY VACCINES

A list of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases is on the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) Web site. This is an excellent resource for current information on immunization requirements.

RECORDKEEPING

All licensed child care programs, preschools, early child care programs, Head Start and schools throughout the state of Minnesota are required to keep current immunization records on file for all children.

Paper immunization forms are on the Minnesota immunization Web site, along with current schedules, informational fact sheets and other educational materials, which may answer any questions you or parents may have about immunizations and the law.

Minnesota Immunization Information Connection (MIIC) is another source for parents, clinics and schools to assess a child’s immunization record, if a parent/legal guardian does not have a current immunization record information.

Some Child Care facilities may have computer software programs like Well Care Tracker where they enter the children’s immunization dates and the program will alert the provider when a child is in need of shots. Remember, not all programs will automatically update to reflect new requirements. It is important to stay current to remain compliant with the immunization laws.

ADDITIONAL TOOLS AND RESOURCES

Reliable Resources [PDF]

Vaccine Safety Information