For Schools

• What is VIIS
• How do schools use VIIS?
• VIIS and FERPA?
• How to participate?

 

What is VIIS?

            The Virginia Immunization Information System (VIIS) is the statewide registry system that combines immunization history for children, adolescents, and adults from both the public and the private sectors.  It is a free, secure, web-based system.  The system has a built in Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) tracking schedule that provides users with current recommendations.  The system also allows users to print a copy of the official immunization record for school entry. 

To see more of the functionality and benefits of VIIS, please click here.

 

How do schools use VIIS?

Schools with a licensed health care professional on site can gain access to VIIS.  Qualified individuals have the option to:

• Update student records with any shots from the school record that may not have been recorded in VIIS if they have parental/guardian permission.
• As a look-up resource for missing immunizations
• Ability to run the following reports:
• Student List: This report displays the name and date of birth for each student on a list
• Student Immunization History List:  This report displays name, date of birth and immunization history for each student on the list
• Immunization Due: This report displays name, DOB, and all immunization information for immunizations due for each student

Reports can be filtered to include information by specific category.  (i.e. students by grade, not up-to-date, missing immunizations, having medical exemptions, new students, etc.). 

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VIIS and FERPA

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 U.S.C 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99) is a federal law that protects the privacy of student education records.  The law applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable program of the U.S. Department of Education.

Immunization records are part of a student’s education record in Virginia.  Therefore, the parent/guardian must grant permission before sharing or including the immunization record in VIIS.  Schools may use the annual FERPA notification process in order to obtain parent/guardian permission.  VDH/DOI is willing to be of assistance in the process of creating the appropriate format.

 

How to Participate?

A user registration packet must be filled out and sent to VDH.  Click here for the user registration forms.  VDH will provide training, which includes either hands on training or the online training that is done at the comfort of your time and space.  VDH will then provide your access information.

 

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