The Immunization Record form serves as an official document that tracks a child's vaccination history. It is essential for school enrollment and childcare in California. Parents must present this record to prove that their child has met the state's immunization requirements.
The form contains various key details, including:
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Child's name and birthdate
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Sex of the child
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Allergies, if any
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Vaccine reactions
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Dates of vaccinations and upcoming doses
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Doctor's office or clinic information
This comprehensive information ensures that parents and healthcare providers have a clear record of immunizations administered.
Why is it important to keep this document?
Retaining the Immunization Record is crucial. Schools and childcare facilities require proof of immunizations for enrollment. If the record is lost, parents may face challenges in enrolling their child or may need to go through the process of obtaining replacement records from healthcare providers.
The form includes a variety of vaccines, such as:
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Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP/Tdap)
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Hepatitis A and B (HEP A, HEP B)
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Hib Meningitis (HIB)
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Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
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Influenza (INFV)
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Meningococcal Vaccines (MCV, MPV)
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Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
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Pneumococcal (PNEUMO)
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Polio (POLIO)
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Rotavirus (RV)
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Varicella (VZV)
These vaccines protect against various infectious diseases and are critical for public health.
What should I do if my child has allergies or vaccine reactions?
If your child has known allergies or has experienced reactions to vaccines, it is important to document this information on the form. Discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider before administering new vaccines. They can provide guidance on safe vaccination practices tailored to your child's health needs.
What if my child needs a TB skin test?
If a TB skin test is required for school entry, it must be the Mantoux test unless an exception is granted by the local health department. The results of the test, including the date given and read, should be recorded on the Immunization Record. If the skin test is positive, a chest x-ray may be necessary to confirm the absence of communicable tuberculosis.
How can I obtain a replacement Immunization Record?
If the Immunization Record is lost, parents can contact their child's healthcare provider or the clinic where the vaccinations were administered. Many providers keep electronic records that can be accessed easily. Additionally, local health departments may also assist in providing a copy of immunization records.