Get the facts before getting immunizations

As school starts for another year, let us all remember that Idaho state law does not require immunizations for children to attend school. Please read the following excerpts from the Idaho Code:

TITLE 39, HEALTH AND SAFETY, CHAPTER 48, IMMUNIZATION

(2) Any minor child whose parent or guardian has submitted a signed statement to school officials stating their objections on religious or other grounds shall be exempt from the provisions of this chapter.

TITLE 39, HEALTH AND SAFETY, CHAPTER 48, IMMUNIZATION

39-4804. NOTIFICATION TO PARENT OR GUARDIAN. Before an immunization is administered to any child in this state, the parent or guardian of the child shall be notified that:

(1) Immunizations are not mandatory and may be refused on religious or other grounds;

(2) Participation in the immunization registry is voluntary;

(3) The parent or guardian is entitled to an accurate explanation of the complications known to follow such immunization.

It is to our best interests to know the law. The complete Idaho Code is readily available on the Internet at http://www3.state.id.us/idstat/TOC/39FTOC.html.

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