The latest CDC report finds national kindergarten vaccination rates inched down again last year as the number of families seeking exemptions rose, surpassing 4% of kindergartners.
On Monday (Aug. 4), the American Academy of Family Physicians is urging parents to protect their children from preventable diseases as they get ready to head back to school.
“We’ve been so successful at treating many of these vaccine-preventable illnesses that many patients are no longer familiar with them. And so things like measles and polio are things that feel like they’re of the past, and so people don’t have that lived experience.”
But measles has made a resurgence across the country, with most of those infected not vaccinated.
“That second measles, mumps, rubella vaccine at kindergarten age is really to make sure we get good lifelong protection. And so, really important before we have exposure to ensure we’re protected.”
The American Academy of Family Physicians is among the five largest physician organizations advocating for continued access to safe and effective vaccines.
Dr. James Bigham says it’s important to sift through the vaccine information that isn’t true.
“If we can stick to the science that we know is foundational, we can actually help our patients make a really informed decision, which is based on facts.”
He encourages parents to have those conversations with a doctor they trust.
“We’re always going to be on the side of wanting to make sure that we ensure everything that we’re doing as far as your healthcare is in line with your values. And a conversation goes a long way as far as ensuring that all of your questions are answered.”
Experts say the return of measles is particularly concerning because it’s one of the most contagious viruses in the world and can cause serious complications in children, including pneumonia, brain swelling, hearing loss, and even death.