City implements fed immunization standards

Carson City has adopted a set of federal requirements for the immunization of children in public schools, private schools and child-care centers.

Before they can attend school, all children in Carson City are now required to get vaccinated for polio, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, measles, mumps, rubella hepatitis A and B and varicella.

Each vaccination comes with its own set of rules, including age requirements and number of doses.

City and school health officials have always adhered to these vaccination standards, said Christi Smith, environmental health specialist for the Carson City Health Department.

"The goal is to make Nevada a state with all of the same guidelines," Smith said. "It's a formality saying that we have put together the recommended guidelines, and now we're able to enforce them."

Standards have not changed, she said, but now they are clearly spelled out for health officials and parents.

The Board of Supervisors approved the standards at its last public meeting.

As part of the action, Carson City Health Officer Carl Heard will be charged with enforcing them. He has agreed to take on that responsibility, Smith said.

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, a 15-member group appointed by the secretary of the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services, developed written recommendations for vaccinations in schools, and it is those standards Carson City will continue to implement.

Parents will be required to present a record of their child's immunization status before he or she can attend school.

Parents must also continue to provide the school with updated information on their child's immunizations. The record and updated information must include the month and year each vaccine dose was received and the signature of person administering the vaccine.

To be in compliance, children who do not meet the state requirements must be referred to their physician or public health clinic with a notice of doses required.

Carson City School District Chief Nurse Marena Works will receive a copy of the new immunization guide when school is back in session after winter break, and it will go into effect immediately, Smith said.

Contact reporter Robyn Moormeister at rmoormeister@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1217.

Has your child

been immunized?

• The Carson City Guide to Immunizations is a quick reference for assessing the immunization status of children before they are allowed to attend school.

• The immunizations listed in the guide are required for school entry in grades K-12.

• For a copy of the guide, call 887-2190; or visit the Carson City Health Department, 3303 Butti Way, Building No. 1.