While Nebraska does allow exemptions to immunization requirements, unvaccinated children are not the only children at risk for contracting diseases.
As many childcare facilities and schools include children of different ages, the younger children rely on the older children to be immunized as some immunizations, like measles and chickenpox, cannot be given until a child is one of age. Some immunizations require multiple doses before a child is considered to have full immunity such as the vaccine for Diphtheria, Tetanus and Pertussis. There are also children who are not medically able to be vaccinated. These vulnerable children depend upon “herd immunity" for protection.
What If You Don't Vaccinate Your Child?
**Children/students with exemptions on file may need to be excluded from childcare program or school if there is an outbreak of a vaccine-preventable disease.**
Varicella (chickenpox)
If the child is not immunized against Varicella (Chickenpox) due to previously contracting the disease, documentation signed by a licensed medical practitioner (physician, physician assistant or certified nurse practitioner) or parent/guardian must be submitted verifying the name of the student and the year in which the child contracted the disease. Documentation of Varicella Disease Documentation of Varicella Disease - Spanish
Medical Exemption
A statement signed by a physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse - nurse practitioner that the required immunization would be injurious to the student or members of the student's family or household. Medical Exemption Form
Religious affidavit
An affidavit signed by a legally authorized representative stating that the immunization conflicts with the tenets and practices of a recognized religious denomination of which the student is a member. Religious Affidavit
Parental refusal- for childcare programs ONLY
Copy of written statement from the parent or guardian must state the reason(s) why the parent or guardian does not wish to have the child immunized.