Medical Exemptions

Immunizations are the best protection against serious diseases. Vaccines are safe and effective and were developed to protect individuals from dangerous and sometimes deadly diseases.

However, some children cannot be immunized for medical reasons. Claiming a medical exemption represents a physician’s determination that the child is allergic to some immunization components, has an immune deficiency, or has an illness such as cancer.

These individuals are at greater risk of exposure to any vaccine-preventable disease that can be life-threatening. To protect those who cannot be vaccinated and the entire community, unimmunized children could be excluded from school and child care during disease outbreaks. This can cause hardship for the child and parent.

A medical exemption can be obtained from the local health department or physician. The medical exemption must be signed by a physician and filed with the school administrator or child care facility.

Immunizations may save your child’s life.

Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services
Bureau of Immunization Assessment and Assurance
800.219.3224

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