Secretary-designee Kirsten Johnson | Wisconsin Health Care Association Website
Secretary-designee Kirsten Johnson | Wisconsin Health Care Association Website
A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that Wisconsin children are lagging behind other states in receiving essential vaccinations. The data, sourced from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS), reveals that vaccination rates among kindergarteners for the 2023-2024 school year are lower compared to national averages. This includes vaccines for diseases such as polio, pertussis, diphtheria and tetanus (DTaP), and measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR).
The report highlights that only 84.8% of Wisconsin kindergarteners have received their MMR vaccine, while the national average stands at 92.7%. This decline in vaccination rates has contributed to an increase in diseases like measles and pertussis across the United States.
"While most Wisconsinites are protecting their children with vaccines, we are below where we need to be to protect our state against preventable outbreaks," stated Paula Tran, State Health Officer and Division of Public Health Administrator. She emphasized that vaccines remain one of the safest and most effective measures to prevent serious illnesses.
Dr. Stephanie Schauer, Wisconsin Immunization Program Manager, acknowledged challenges faced by families in accessing vaccines due to time constraints or concerns about costs. "There's no shortage of vaccines," she said. Dr. Schauer advised parents to consult with pediatricians or local health departments regarding any questions about vaccine safety.
Vaccines are accessible throughout Wisconsin at various locations including doctor's offices, clinics, pharmacies, and health departments. DHS is committed to supporting communities without adequate health insurance through grant programs like Vaccines for Children or Vaccines for Adults.
Families can check their vaccination status via the Wisconsin Immunization Registry (WIR), which provides information in multiple languages including English, Spanish, and Hmong.
For further inquiries or information on recommended vaccines for children and teens, individuals can visit the DHS website or contact local health services.
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