Sec. 12-135. Immunizations required

The regulations contained in this Section for immunization shall apply to all children enrolled in the public schools of the County in the elementary grades.

No person shall be allowed to remain as a pupil in any public elementary school in the County, unless he submits satisfactory evidence of adequate protection or immunization against diphtheria, acceptable to the Health Department, within a reasonable period of time after registration; provided, that certain children may be exempted from this requirement upon certification by a licensed, registered physician that the physical condition of the child precludes such immunization. Such exemption from this requirement may also be obtained if the person or his natural or legal guardian provides a written statement to the public school which he expects to attend, that he objects to the inoculation required by this Section on the basis of a religious belief.

If it found that the parents cannot afford to take their child to a private physician for the necessary immunization, this service will be rendered free of charge by the Health Department with the written consent of a parent or guardian.

The principal of every public elementary school shall be responsible for advising the parent or guardian of the requirements of this Section. He shall be responsible for notifying the Health Department within a reasonable time, not to exceed thirty (30) days after registration of the child, of any failure to comply with this Section.

Any parent or guardian who fails to comply with this Section, either willfully or through neglect, within a reasonable time after registration of the child, but in no case more than one (1) month, shall be guilty of a violation of this Code. A continued failure to comply after conviction shall constitute a separate offense.