Immunization Exemptions for Children

New Hampshire RSA 141-C:20-c states that a child may be exempt from required school and child care immunization if:

• A licensed physician or authorized health care provider certifies that immunization against a particular disease may be detrimental to the child's health. The exemption shall exist only for the length of time, in the opinion of the physician, such immunization would be detrimental to the child. An exemption from immunization for one disease shall not affect other required immunizations. This is a Medical Exemption.
   
• A parent or legal guardian objects to immunization because of religious beliefs. The parent or legal guardian shall sign the New Hampshire Childcare/School Immunization Religious Exemption form stating that the child has not been immunized because of religious beliefs. This is a Religious Exemption.
  • New Hampshire Vacunación en guarderías/escuelas Certificado de exención religiosa  (Spanish)

Per HB 1035 (effective July 19, 2022) a parent or legal guardian’s request for a religious exemption from immunizations required for childcare/school attendance requires the signature of a parent or legal guardian but no longer requires a notary signature. 

Exclusion During Outbreak of Disease

During an outbreak of a communicable disease for which immunization is required, children with an exemption may be excluded from the school or childcare agency threatened by the communicable disease, if recommended by the NH Division of Public Health Services.