New York Schools Mandate Vaccinations Ahead of New Academic Year

As the summer season wraps up and families prepare for the return to classrooms, New York State health officials are reminding parents that students must be up to date on their vaccinations in order to attend school.

Each school year, the New York State Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Education issue a list of immunizations required for enrollment. These include protection against diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, whooping cough (pertussis), polio, hepatitis B, and varicella (chickenpox). Students entering grades 6 through 12 must also meet meningococcal vaccine requirements.

Public health advocates stress that vaccines are critical for protecting children and the broader community.

 “When you vaccinate your child, the entire classroom benefits from that by helping reduce the spread of infection,” said Justin Nistico, an Arnot Health infectious disease doctor.

In 2019, New York eliminated non-medical exemptions for school vaccinations following a significant measles outbreak. Since then, only children with valid medical exemptions are allowed to attend school without the required immunizations.

Many health officials warn that skipping vaccinations leaves children vulnerable to serious health risks.

“Unvaccinated children are more likely to contract preventable diseases like I mentioned, measles and whooping cough, and those diseases can cause serious complications, including, and some instances, hospitalization,” said VanDenburg.

Health providers encourage parents with concerns to seek reliable information.

“If you’re unsure about vaccinations, start with a simple conversation with your doctor. They can help you make the best choice for your child’s health,” said VanDenburg.

Doctors emphasize that immunizations not only safeguard the individual receiving them but also help protect classmates, teachers, and family members from preventable illnesses.

For full details on New York State’s back-to-school immunization requirements, families can visit the New York State Department of Health website: https://www.health.ny.gov.

New York Schools Mandate Vaccinations Ahead of New Academic Year