By Nancy Reid, Staff Writer, myOptumHealth

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All states require proof of immunization before children can attend school. Proof consists of a written record that shows the month, day and year that your child was immunized. You'll need this written proof when your child enrolls or registers for school.

State laws vary as to which ones are needed, but most states require proof that your child has received at least the following:

• Tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis, or tetanus and diphtheria vaccines
• Polio vaccines
• Measles, mumps and rubella vaccines

Most states also require hepatitis B, HiB, varicella (chickenpox) and pneumococcal vaccines.

The school usually has a form for recording immunizations, The parent or guardian must get the needed documents from the pediatrician or public health clinic where the child was immunized.

The only exemptions to the school requirements are medical reasons, religious beliefs or a strong personal conviction opposing immunizations. This also varies by state.

Vaccines are sometimes available for free. If your child didn't get immunized as an infant, the needed series of vaccines can be started at any time. Contact your state health department to find the nearest county health department.