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June 23, 2010

Immunization Reminder Service Changes July 1st

Starting July 1, patients receiving immunizations at the Central District Health Department (CDHD) and other immunization providers throughout the state will be automatically enrolled in Idaho’s Immunization Reminder Service (IRIS). IRIS is a web-based program that keeps track of immunizations received and when vaccinations are due.

Beginning July 1, IRIS will convert from an opt-in system to an opt-out system, meaning newborns will automatically be enrolled in the registry at birth. IRIS remains a voluntary system and parents can opt-out at any time simply by filling out a form, either on-line or by hard copy, and submitting it to the Idaho Immunization Program (IIP). Opt-out forms and additional information are available at: www.immunizeidaho.com. If you would like to complete a written IRIS deletion form you will need to contact the IIP by phone at 208-334-5931.

Parents of newborns will be notified that their baby has been added to the registry by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (DHW). Information about the voluntary nature of the registry is included, along with information on how a parent can opt-out if they do not wish to participate. DHW will include this IRIS information with birth certificate information that is routinely mailed to parents, usually within the first two weeks following birth.

Medical providers are encouraged to add children who were not born in Idaho. In most cases, this would consist of children who have relocated to Idaho from another state.

Idaho has one of the lowest children’s immunization rates in the nation. Immunization providers, and state and local public health officials are working hard to improve Idaho’s immunization rates so Idaho children do not become seriously ill from vaccine preventable diseases. In most cases of missed vaccinations, parents want their children to be fully protected, but sometimes forget vaccine schedules. The registry can be used to remind the medical provider and family of missed vaccinations.

IRIS protects children’s immunization records. If a family moves, changes doctors or loses their immunization record, a record can be easily retrieved through IRIS. With this tool, vaccinations can be kept current and accurate, preventing missed vaccinations or re-vaccinations because of lost or missing records.

Idaho participates in Vaccines for Children, a federal program. Under the program, the state covers the costs for vaccines for children up to age 19. CDHD charges an administration fee on a sliding scale based on income.

For additional information on Immunizations services at CDHD visit the Immunizations pages of our website or call 208-327-7450.