๐ซ Back-to-School Reminder for Kane County Parents
No Shots, No School, Not True!
As the new school year kicks off, here are four key things every Illinois parent should know:
1๏ธโฃ Vaccine Exemptions Are LEGAL and AVAILABLE
Illinois law allows for
religious exemptions to school vaccine requirements. This includes routine childhood vaccines and grade-specific boosters. You are
not required to vaccinate your child to enroll them in public school. โก๏ธ Know your rights. Use them confidently.
2๏ธโฃ Yes, Vaccinated Kids Can Shed
Live virus vaccines like
MMR and
FluMist can shed — meaning a recently vaccinated child may transmit the virus to others. Even non-live vaccines like
DTaP/TDaP have been linked to asymptomatic transmission of
pertussis. โก๏ธ Don’t fall for the myth that only the unvaccinated spread illness. Science tells a more nuanced story.
3๏ธโฃ Support Your Child’s Natural Immunity
Back to school = more germs. Strengthen your child’s immune system with:
- ๐ Whole foods over processed snacks
- ๐ Daily outdoor time and consistent sleep
- ๐ฆ Gut support: consider probiotics and reduce sugar
- ๐ Stay informed, not fearful
4๏ธโฃ Be Cautious About Permission Slips
Illinois schools increasingly offer
school-based health services, including mental health screenings and vaccinations. Before signing any health-related forms:
- ๐ Read carefully
- ๐๏ธ Watch for blanket consent clauses
- ๐ง Know what services may be provided without direct parental notification
๐ฌ Your child. Your choice. Your voice matters — especially this school year.
Learn the risk of vaccines:
https://learntherisk.org/vaccines/
Illinois Religious Exemption form:
https://dph.illinois.gov/content/dam/soi/en/web/idph/files/forms/religious-exemption-form-081815-040816.pdf
Illinois school opt out form:
https://pacificjustice.org/resources/for-parents/public-school-opt-out-forms/public-school-opt-out-forms-content/
Illinois Vaccine laws:
https://www.nvic.org/law-policy-state/vaccine-laws-illinois
