Italy Removes Doctor Vaccination Verification For Public School Enrollment

The Italian government announced on July 5, 2018, that parents will no longer have to deliver doctor verification to state-run schools that their children have been vaccinated

This new rule requires only the assurance from parents that their children have been appropriately immunized to attend school, reports The Local.

Since 2017, Italian schoolchildren have been required to prove they have received 10 vaccinations to attend public schools. 

These vaccinations are offered free to children living in Italy.

The new law comes at a time when Italy and most European countries are battling an expanding measles outbreak.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Italy reported 389 measles cases for April 2018, which is an increase from 355 and 289 cases reported for March and February 2018.

Additionally, the WHO’s July 7, 2018 report highlights various infectious disease outbreaks across Europe, such as West Nile virus, dengue, and Polio.

In reaction to the measles outbreak in Italy, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Level 1 Travel Alert during January 2018.

“It’s important to remember when traveling internationally that other countries may have different recommendations regarding vaccinations,” reminds  Lauren A. Ragan PharmD Clinical Pharmacist MTM and Immunization Specialist Brookshire Grocery Company.

“Check the CDC website to see what vaccinations you may need prior to travel.”

“Many vaccines needed for travel destinations are available from your local pharmacy,” Ragan said.

This CDC alert was issued because most measles cases in the USA can be traced to a returning international traveler.

This CDC alert means Americans traveling to Europe should speak with a healthcare provider regarding their immunization status, before departing on an international trip.

In the USA, two approved measles vaccines are available, MMR-II and ProQuad.

International travelers can easily request a vaccination appointment with a pharmacy at Vax-Before-Travel.

The CDC Vaccine Price List provides the private sector vaccine prices for general information, and vaccine discounts can be found here.

Vaccines, like any medicine, can have side effects, says the CDC. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of vaccines to the FDA or CDC.