US Vaccination Rates Drop Again as Parents Refuse Lifesaving Shots for Kids

Vaccination rates in the US are dropping, and it’s raising concerns about the return of dangerous diseases like measles, whooping cough, and polio. According to the CDC, vaccination rates among kindergartners have fallen to 92% for the 2023–2024 school year—down from 95% just a few years ago.

The drop is largely due to a rise in vaccine exemptions, which hit a record high of 3.3%. Most of these exemptions are for non-medical reasons, such as religious or philosophical beliefs. With only 0.2% of exemptions being medically justified, the increase in vaccine refusal means more kids are at risk of preventable diseases.

Falling below the 95% vaccination target puts communities in danger of outbreaks, as clusters of unvaccinated children allow diseases to spread more easily. Some states, like Idaho, have vaccination rates as low as 80%, and with high exemption rates, they are especially vulnerable.

While the exact reasons behind the decline in vaccinations aren’t fully clear, researchers suggest it may be linked to COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy or backlash against vaccine mandates during the pandemic. To combat this trend, the CDC recommends strategies like school-based vaccination clinics and stronger enforcement of vaccine requirements.

If the trend continues, the US risks seeing more outbreaks of once-controlled diseases, putting the health of children and entire communities at risk. It’s essential to stay informed and protect kids by keeping up with routine vaccinations.