Are students required to receive immunizations if they remain virtual?

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The Maryland Department of Health has not lifted the requirement for immunizations, which are still required for entry into school and are vital for children’s overall health and wellness. On August 26, 2020, the Maryland State Department of Education shared that "After consulting with the [Maryland Department of Health] and MSDE Attorney General’s offices, it has been determined that school immunization requirements remain in effect whether students are in the physical school building or are participating through virtual learning."

As such, all children must have the required State of Maryland immunizations in order to attend school. Parents are responsible for providing proof of immunization to the school prior to the student attending or proof of an appointment for necessary immunizations within 20 calendar days of the first day of school.

To help our students obtain the necessary vaccines, HCPSS Health Services partnered with the Howard County Health Department (HCHD) and the Maryland Partnership for Prevention (MPP) to offer several immunization clinics in September. If you are uninsured or your insurance plan does not cover immunizations, you may obtain immunizations at the Howard County Health Department. Please call 410-313-7500 to schedule an appointment. If you are uninsured or your insurance plan does not cover immunizations, you may obtain immunizations at the Howard County Health Department. Please call 410-313-7500 to schedule an appointment.

More information on immunization requirements can be found online.