Immunization Requirements in Vermont

Updated September 2019 The State of Vermont now has daycare and school immunization requirements, recognizing “exemptions” only if the parent files a religious objection to one or more vaccine(s) , or a form with a signed medical opinion (stating that vaccine(s) may be detrimental to the child’s health). Who Decides Which Vaccines and How Many Doses are “Required”? Learn more about the role of “NACCHO” in pushing vaccine mandates here. State of Vermont vaccination regulations (copy here) state that “The Vermont Recommended Immunization Schedule is based on the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) as approved and published by the Centers for Disease Control.” [underline added for emphasis] Students/Parents who do not want to use all the vaccines or all the doses, or who do not vaccinate  at all, fill out an “exemption form“. Vermont’s vaccination regulations also state that The Commissioner of Health shall annually convene the Vermont Immunization Advisory Council (VIAC) to assist in the determination of whether the Immunization Schedule found in Section 7 of this rule should be updated in accordance with the published Centers for Disease Control (CDC) immunization schedule. The Commissioner may convene additional meeting of the Council as necessary.” and Following release of a CDC vaccine recommendation, a two-year phase-in period will pass before children and students may be required to have the vaccine in order to enroll in a child care facility or school.” and ” If necessary to protect the public’s health, the Commissioner may require a shorter phase-in period.” All