Frequently Asked Questions for Parents and Guardians

What is the New York State Immunization Information System (NYSIIS)?

NYSIIS is a computerized information system, also called a registry, which keeps track of the immunizations your child receives.

In August 2006, New York State passed a law requiring the creation of a statewide immunization registry. Beginning January 1, 2008, doctors will begin to report information on all shots given to people younger than 19 years of age. The information stored on NYSIIS is kept confidential.

What are the benefits of NYSIIS to me and my child?

NYSIIS will let a doctor or nurse easily record and keep track of your child's immunizations. NYSIIS will help make sure your child is up-to-date on all of their shots. It will help your child get only those shots they need. The registry will also:

  • Provide a correct, official copy of your child's immunization history for day care, school or camp entry requirements.
  • Combine information from more than one provider to make one complete and accurate shot record.
  • Keep your child's immunization record in one place. If you move within the state, or change providers, the record can easily be found by the new provider.
  • Stop your child from getting needless shots.
  • Provide emergency room doctors with instant information on tetanus or other shots your child has had.

What information about my child will be stored in NYSIIS?

Your child's record will include the following:

  • Child's name (first, middle and last).
  • Date of birth.
  • Parent or guardian's name.
  • Current address.
  • Mother's maiden name.
  • Type of vaccine and date given.
  • Vaccine manufacturer and lot number.

How will I know if my child has been enrolled in NYSIIS?

Your child's doctor will talk with you about the registry the next time your child receives an immunization.

Some doctors in the state have been participating in a New York State supported registry. The immunization records of those doctors' patients have already been moved to NYSIIS.

How is my child's immunization information on NYSIIS protected?

To keep your child's record private, providers need to go through several steps when signing up for NYSIIS. The steps include:

  • NYSDOH checks the provider's license.
  • Provider signs a NYSDOH confidentiality form protecting the information.
  • Provider given their own account and password to use every time they enter NYSIIS.
  • Provider attends a system training.

Your child's provider may grant access to certain members of their staff to enter records. If so, your provider accepts responsibility for the information put in your child's record by his/her staff.

Does Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) apply to NYSIIS?

No, HIPAA does not apply to NYSIIS.

How do I get copies of my child's immunization record?

You may ask for a copy of your child's record from his or her provider or your local (county) health department.

What happens to my child's records when they reach 19 years of age?

Information about the immunizations your child was given before 19 years of age will be kept in NYSIIS. Once your child turns 19, they must sign a consent form giving their provider the okay to continue entering immunizations into NYSIIS.

Do other states have systems like NYSIIS?

Forty-six states have a system like New York's. As of 2006, 65 percent of all children in the U.S. are enrolled in an immunization information system.

Where can I learn more about NYSIIS?

To learn more about NYSIIS visit our web site at: http://www.nyhealth.gov/prevention/immunization/information_system/

If you have further questions, contact your child's doctor. Also, you may contact the Growing Up Healthy Hotline by calling 1-800-522-5006 or through TTY access at 1-800-655-1789.