More Students Are Taking Immunization Exemptions
Idaho has seen a drastic increase in the number of children receiving exemptions from vaccine requirements. Between 2006 and 2016, the amount has doubled.
For the 2016/2017 school year, Idaho had 6.4% of students turn in an exemption. That was up from 2.9% in 2006. That might be a surprise since immunization rates across the country have been on the increase in the same period of time.
The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare follows the rate of exemptions granted to students in kindergarten, first grade, and seventh grade. They track it based on forms turned in and kept on file with individual school districts.
Local districts require that parents or guardians provide an immunization record or submit the exemption before their kids begin school.
Most times, the exemption doesn't mean the students haven't received any vaccinations, but can indicate the student is missing one dose or has skipped a single vaccination.
For more on this and deeper look into the paperwork required, check out coverage from the Meridian Press.