There is a need for Head Start program requirements to recognize limitations of state immunization resources. They have since that time been strong proponents of immunization. It is now their policy to require Head Start children to be in full compliance with ACIP recommendations. Until recently, this requirement was in line with most state requirements for day care and school enterers. However, ACIP has recently issued a series of new recommendations which many states do not have resources to implement fully.
States have the responsibility to make optimal use of limited immunization resources.
CDC and most of the Department of Health and Human Services recognize that setting immunization requirements is a state prerogative and while they encourage certain policies, they do not establish immunization requirements. At present, Head Start requires administration of Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine for all attendees under 6 years of age. Many states do not have resources to vaccinate all preschool children, and vaccination of older Head Start children may result in diversion of vaccine from younger higher risk children.