1. (1) The department shall develop and distribute implementation guidelines for schools and child care centers that:

   1. (a) Meet the requirement of WAC 246-105-040(2); and
   2. (b) Reflect national immunization guidelines for children who did not receive required immunizations prior to entry into kindergarten or first grade, and for whom a full series of immunizations is not recommended.

2. (2) The department may develop school implementation guidelines that waive or modify immunization requirements when a phasing-in period is warranted for a new immunization mandate, when there is limited availability of a required immunizing agent, or when new information about the safety or efficacy of an immunizing agent prompts a reevaluation of an existing vaccination requirement. Any waiver or modification must:

   1. (a) Reflect the best available medical research as indicated by the ACIP or the state health officer recommendation;
   2. (b) Identify a specific vaccine-preventable disease or immunizing agent;
   3. (c) Identify a specific cohort of children by age or grade level;
   4. (d) Be limited in duration; and
   5. (e) Be approved by the board.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 28A.210.140, 28A.210.080, and 28A.210.100. WSR 19-21-161, § 246-105-090, filed 10/22/19, effective 8/1/20. Statutory Authority: RCW 28A.210.140. WSR 09-02-003, § 246-105-090, filed 12/26/08, effective 1/26/09.]