Proof of immunizations is required for children entering preschool, kindergarten and seventh grade and those enrolling in a Tennessee school, including colleges and universities, for the first time. Parents may obtain a Tennessee Immunization Certificate at any of our locations (see the sidebar on the right for directions). Please call 865-215-5150 to speak with someone in our Immunization Program office.
For more than 30 years, our Immunization Program has maintained immunization certificates and records for children in Knox County. This program monitors our county’s child vaccination rates in an effort to maintain high levels of immunization against vaccine-preventable diseases. Through the combined use of birth records, the CDC’s National Immunization survey of 24-month-old babies and teens, and the statewide Immunization Registry, the Immunization Program works to ensure that all children are protected from vaccine-preventable diseases.
The Immunization Program works with the Department of Human Services to audit day care centers and Head Start programs in Knox County. In addition, the Immunization Program provides guidance, education and support to local health care providers. For example, the program guides health care providers through signing up for the Tennessee Immunization Registry as well as provides assistance in using the system. The Immunization Program is a participant in the federal Vaccines For Children Program and acts as a resource to Knox County providers who also participate in Vaccines For Children Program.
