Schools
What Immunizations Do Salem Students Need?
Add "getting the necessary immunizations" to your back-to-school to-do list.
By Brooklyn Lowery
There's already plenty on your to-do list as you prepare for the start of another school year in Salem.
Supply lists, summer reading, back-to-school clothes, athletic forms... they all stand out. In the midst of these things, don't forget that there are some state-mandated medical requirements as well.
Whether your child is headed to preschool or to college, the state has a series of required vaccinations based on your child's grade. At various ages, doses of vaccine for hepatitis B; polio; meningitis; mumps, measles and rubella (MMR); and others are required.
Local pediatricians can provide specific information or check out the information provided by the state.
The state does provide a vaccine exemption process under two circumstances, according to the Department of Public Health:
1. A medical exemption is allowed if a physician submits documentation attesting that an immunization is medically contraindicated; and
2. A religious exemption is allowed if a parent or guardian submits a written statement that immunizations conflict with their sincere religious beliefs.
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