Immunization Requirements

For Pre-K through 12
State law requires students in Texas schools to be immunized against certain vaccine-preventable diseases. Getting your child vaccinated not only protects your child’s health, but also that of the community. The immunization requirements are set by Texas law and provided by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DHSH).

Pre-K Minimum Vaccine Requirements for Texas

K-12 Minimum Vaccine Requirements for Texas

A printable PDF version of the required immunization chart will appear at the bottom of this page in English and Spanish.

College Requirements
All entering students at an institution of higher education* are required to show proof of an initial meningococcal vaccination or a booster dose during the five-year period prior to enrolling. They must get the vaccine at least 10 days before the semester begins.

DSHS College Requirements
 
Meningitis Information for Students & Parents
 

Exemptions

Medical Exemptions: The law allows physicians to write a statement stating that the vaccine(s) required would be medically harmful or injurious to the health and well-being of the child. The written statement by the physician must be submitted to the school nurse. Unless it is written in the statement that a lifelong condition exists, the exemption statement is valid for only one year from the date signed by the physician. The Department of State and Health Services requires certain information be included in the physician note. 

Information from the Department of State and Health Services regarding medical exemptions

For reasons of conscience, including religious beliefs: The law allows parents/guardians to choose an exemption from immunization requirements for reasons of conscience, including a religious belief. The completed and returned form from the Texas DSHS must be submitted to the school nurse in order for the student to be admitted. The school will accept only the original official affidavit forms developed and issued by the Texas DSHS. The affidavit will be valid for two years.

Information from Department of State and Health Services regarding exemptions
 

Flu Vaccinations

SRISD provides opportunity for staff to receive Flu Vaccines each year in the fall. 

CDC Fight the Flu
Texas Flu website
 

Need Help Getting Immunizations?

See your Child’s Primary Care Provider – don’t wait until the last minute as appointments may not be available.
Pharmacies provide vaccines for those with insurance. Some require a physician prescription for children under 14.
The Texas Vaccines for Children (TVFC) program provides low-cost vaccines to eligible children from birth through 18 years of age. 
- Eligible for participation in the Medicaid program
- Enrolled in the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
- American Indian or Alaska Native (As defined by 25 U.S.C. 1603)
- Uninsured Children: Children who do not have health insurance
- Underinsured Children: Have some coverage - Underinsured children must be seen by a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), Rural Health Clinic (RHC), or deputized clinic.
 
The following providers in the area participate in the program:
Cameron County Department of Public Health
711 N. L Street
Harlingen, TX
78550
956-423-3516