Student Immunizations
The State of Iowa requires students entering all grades to provide proof of certain immunizations to attend school. Students must turn in a complete Certificate of Immunization, exemption form, or provisional form. Students will not be able to attend school without the immunizations required by Iowa law.
Students must turn in documentation of Immunizations that includes one of the following:
- Iowa Health and Human Services (IHHS) Certificate of Immunization
- IHHS Religious Certificate of Exemption
- IHHS Medical Certificate of Exemption (requires a healthcare providers signature)
Which immunizations are required?
- Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis (DTap)
- Polio
- Measles/Rubella
- Hepatitis B
- Varicella
- Meningococcal
- Preschool ONLY: Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) and pneumococcal
What does this mean for you?
Students who do not have the required vaccinations and/or boosters OR provide an Iowa Certification of Immunization Exemption (religious or medical) by the first day of the school year will be excluded from school.
- Some requirements have no grace/extension period within the Iowa law. Students new to Iowa may be on a different schedule for vaccination requirements.
- Students may be eligible for a provisional enrollment which requires the child to have at least one dose of each required vaccine for their age.
- Students entering 7th or 12th grade have additional requirements for the Tdap and Meningococcal vaccine required before the first day of school.
If your child is on a provisional certificate or entering 7th/12th grade, watch for additional communication from your school nurse.
What are next steps for families?
Make sure to have requirements completed by the first day of school so your child is able to attend and meet the requirements by Iowa law.
Immunization forms are available:
- in your school health office
- on the Health Services web page
- at the Polk County Health Department
- through your child's healthcare provider
Watch for additional communication from your school nurse.
Make an appointment with your healthcare provider/community providers, and bring a copy of your immunizations. If you need assistance with immunizations or finding a provider, contact: