Immunization Reminder from MDE

MDE issued a memo on June 27, 2024 reminding Michigan public schools of student immunization requirements.

Every Michigan public school student must have a current immunization certificate or valid waiver when they register (or no later than the first day of school) for kindergarten and 7th grade, and whenever a student enrolls for the first time in a new school district, grades 1-12. A student has a “complete immunization record” if the student has received all doses of the required vaccine series. A student has “provisional status” if the student has received at least one dose of a required vaccine and the next dose is not yet due. Schools are required to follow up with the parent or guardian of each student with a provisional status to ensure the student received the follow-up dose(s) of the required vaccine.

All Michigan schools must report immunization information. Michigan law mandates that any student who does not meet Michigan immunization requirements shall not be admitted or allowed to participate in classes.

The Michigan Public Health Code requires a parent/guardian to have one of the following documents on file with the school:

1. A valid, up-to-date immunization record. Acceptable immunization documentation for schools includes:

• An immunization record from a provider (EMR, Electronic Medical Record);
• An official Michigan Care Improvement Registry immunization record; or
• A state Immunization Information System record.

2. A medical doctor’s (M.D. or D.O.) signed State of Michigan 2024 Medical Contraindication Form, which states the medical contraindication(s), the vaccines involved, and the time during which the student is not able to get the vaccines.
3. A current, certified State of Michigan 2024 Nonmedical Immunization Waiver. When a parent or guardian holds a religious or other objection that prevents a student from receiving vaccines, they must have a 2024 Nonmedical Immunization Waiver completed, signed, and certified at the local health department.

Schools must maintain up-to-date immunization records, including waivers, on file for all students.

A FERPA compliant consent form (FERPA consent) is required for a school to share student immunization data on the Michigan Care Improvement Registry/School Immunization Reporting System.

With the new school year approaching, this is the time to ensure that an administrator will review the school’s student immunization records and request updated information from parents or guardians, as necessary. If school officials have any concerns about their records or the legal immunization requirements, they should contact their Thrun attorney.