CDC reports the highest childhood vaccine exemption rate ever
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently reported a record-high childhood vaccine exemption rate in the U.S., with 3% of kindergarteners in the 2022-2023 school year granted exemptions. This marks an alarming national trend, especially as 40 states experienced increases in exemption rates. Notably, 10 states saw rates surpass 5%, with Idaho standing out at over 12%.
Experts attribute this surge in vaccine exemptions to a broader skepticism towards healthcare, with a growing distrust in the system. The report did not delve into the causes but highlighted the connection with a general unease about medicine, potentially fueled by concerns about COVID vaccines.
Concerns arise not only from the exemption rates but also from stagnant vaccination rates among young children, remaining at 93%, below the desired 95% for community immunity. This stagnation follows a pandemic-related dip in coverage, posing a risk of leaving children unprotected against serious diseases. The report underscores the importance of addressing vaccine hesitancy and ensuring comprehensive vaccination coverage, particularly amid the backdrop of recent infectious disease challenges.
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