Wyoming health officials release immunization requirements

Wyoming health officials have included vaccinations against pneumococcal diseases and rotavirus among the new state childhood immunization requirements.

The Wyoming Tribune Eagle reports the Wyoming Department of Health on Wednesday announced the new requirements, which stipulate all children must be vaccinated within 30 days of beginning attendance at Wyoming schools or child care facilities.

The state immunization requirements also apply to homeschooled children who participate in school activities or sports.

The pneumococcal vaccination helps protect against bacteria that can cause illnesses like pneumonia, sepsis and middle-ear infections. Rotavirus can cause gastroenteritis, especially in infants and young children.

Department spokeswoman Kim Deti says most of the vaccines are administered before a child reaches early school age.