Is Getting Your Child Vaccinated Mandatory?

While most parents get their children vaccinated according to the schedule outlined by the American Academy of Pediatrics, a small number of parents opt to skip the vaccinations. Though this is certainly within your rights, you should also know the laws and exemptions before making your final decision, as well as the implications your decision can have on your child.

  1. Vaccinations and the Law

    • There aren't any laws on the books requiring parents to vaccinate their children, which means there is no fear of criminal repercussions if you opt not to get your child immunized. All 50 states, however, have vaccination requirements that dictate whether your child will be allowed to enroll in school or not. If you choose not to vaccinate your child, that doesn't automatically mean he won't be able to go to school, but it does mean that you'll be required to fill out paperwork and show proof that there is a good reason why you've made that choice.

    Medical Exemptions

    • All 50 states allow exemptions if there is a medical reason why you've opted to skip vaccinations for your child, according to the College of Physicians of Philadelphia. You can receive one of these exemptions if your child has an illness or medical condition that impairs his immune function, such as cancer, or certain congenital disorders. If your child is allergic to any of the ingredients in vaccinations or has had a serious reaction to a vaccination in the past, you can also receive a medical exemption, the College of Physicians of Philadelphia notes.

    Religious or Personal Belief Exemptions

    • If you have religious beliefs that influence your decision regarding vaccinations, you can request an exemption so your child is still able to go to school, but only in 48 states. Mississippi and West Virginia don't grant exemptions based on religious beliefs. In 20 states, you can get an exemption because you're philosophically opposed to vaccinating your child, according to the College of Physicians of Philadelphia. You'll have to provide proof that you've received one of these exemptions before enrolling your child in school.

    Implications of Skipping Vaccinations

    • Consider the potential implications of skipping vaccinations before making your final decision. According to HealthyChildren.org, vaccinating your child is the best way to prevent 16 major illnesses. Immunizations have significantly reduced cases of illnesses such as whooping cough and measles. If you're holding back on vaccinations because you're worried about side effects, know that vaccinations don't cause serious side effects in most children.

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