Checking vaccination status at entry to, or during school

Global strategic plans for the elimination of measles and rubella and maternal neonatal tetanus (MNTE) both call for strengthening of the role of schools in the delivery of routinely recommended vaccines and checking vaccination status at entry to, or during school, to achieve and sustain elimination of these vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs). Where enrollment is high, the school setting offers an opportunity to connect with children who may not have received all age-appropriate vaccines. Ensuring children in formal education or care settings are protected against all VPDs is important not only for the health of the child, their family and community, but also for a healthy care/school environment, which is a prerequisite for optimal learning.

Vaccination status checks can be used to implement laws or policies requiring proof of vaccination for entry into formal childcare or school, however these two things should not be confused: vaccination status checks can be implemented without such entry requirement