To facilitate a seamless educational experience, it is imperative that all students ensure their immunization requirements are met within the initial 30 days of school attendance. Moreover, for students embarking on their educational journey within the North Carolina Public School system, it is essential to bear in mind that health assessments are obligatory. It is essential to note that the issuance of an appointment card will not serve as an extension to the 30-day immunization-health assessment compliance window.  

Religious Exemptions

In North Carolina, individuals can seek a religious exemption from immunization requirements for attending school. Here are the key points related to religious exemptions in the state:

Written Statement of Religious Beliefs: To claim a religious exemption from immunization requirements, the person or parent (for a minor) must submit a written statement that expresses their bona fide religious beliefs and opposition to immunization requirements. This statement should clearly outline the religious objections to immunization.

No Specific Form: North Carolina does not provide a specific form for requesting religious exemptions. Instead, individuals or parents requesting the exemption are required to write a statement detailing their religious objections to immunization. The statement should include the name and date of birth of the person for whom the exemption is being requested.

Exemption Approval: Once the written statement of religious objection is provided, the individual may attend the school without presenting a certificate of immunization. In this case, the religious exemption statement is an alternative to the standard immunization record.

It's important to note that religious exemptions from immunization requirements are granted based on sincerely held religious beliefs.

Medical Exemptions

Physician Involvement: A physician must be involved in the process of requesting a medical exemption from required immunizations for a patient.

Contacting North Carolina Immunization Branch: If a physician determines that a patient requires a medical exemption, they should get in touch with the North Carolina Immunization Branch for assistance and guidance in the process.

State Health Director's Authority: The State Health Director in North Carolina has the authority to grant a medical exemption upon the request of a licensed physician. This exemption can be granted for a contraindication not listed in the Commission's approved contraindication list.

Physician Licensing: Only physicians licensed to practice medicine in North Carolina are eligible to request medical exemptions.

Medical exemptions are typically granted when a patient has a specific medical condition or contraindication that makes it unsafe for them to receive certain immunizations. 

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800 North Street
Fayetteville, NC 28301

Phone: 910-678-2406
Fax: 910-483-7835

Shirley Bolden, MSA
Director of Health Services