Vaccines required for school attendance vary by state and age group but generally include a core set of immunizations to protect against common and serious diseases. Here is a summary of typical vaccine requirements for children attending daycare, pre-K, elementary, middle, and high school in the United States: Common Required Vaccines for School Entry (Daycare through 12th Grade):
- Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP for younger children, Tdap booster for older students)
- Polio (IPV)
- Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
- Varicella (Chickenpox)
- Hepatitis B
Additional Vaccines for Younger Children (Daycare and Pre-K):
- Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
- Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV)
Additional Vaccines for Middle and High School Students:
- Tdap booster (required typically before 6th grade)
- Meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MenACWY), often required for grades 7-12, with an additional booster at age 16 for grade 12 students
Examples from Specific States:
- New York: Requires DTaP/Tdap, Hepatitis B, MMR, Polio, Varicella for all school levels; Tdap and Meningococcal vaccines for middle and high school; Hib and Pneumococcal for daycare and pre-K
- Colorado: Requires Hepatitis B, DTaP, IPV, MMR, Varicella for K-12; Tdap before 6th grade; and additional vaccines for child care attendees
- Florida: Requires multiple doses of DTaP, IPV, MMR, Hepatitis B, Varicella, and one dose of Tdap for grades K-12; Tdap also required for 7th grade entry
- California: Requires DTaP (5 doses), Polio (4 doses), Hepatitis B (3 doses), Varicella (2 doses), and Tdap booster for 7th grade
Parents must provide proof of immunization or valid medical exemptions to enroll or keep children in school. Vaccines are given in multiple doses to build and maintain immunity, and receiving multiple vaccines at the same visit is considered safe
. In summary, the core vaccines required for school attendance across most U.S. states include DTaP/Tdap, Polio, MMR, Varicella, and Hepatitis B, with additional vaccines like Hib, Pneumococcal, and Meningococcal required depending on age and state regulations
