1 in 6 kids missing vaccines. Why?

1 in 6 kids missing vaccines. Why?

Incomplete Vaccination Series Leaves Toddlers Vulnerable to Deadly Infections

children vaccines

Most early childhood vaccines require three or four doses for optimal protection. However, a recent study has found that more than 1 in 6 toddlers in the United States are not receiving all the recommended doses, thus leaving them vulnerable to potentially deadly infections.

Various Reasons Behind Incomplete Vaccination Series

There are several reasons why children are not completing their vaccination series. Some families may have relocated across state lines, making it challenging to access their vaccine records and continue the series. In addition, a lack of health insurance is another significant factor contributing to incomplete vaccinations. These findings were identified by a team led by Sarah Michels from the University of Montana, who examined immunization rates in over an extensive cohort of toddlers nationwide.

Alarming Statistics

The study included data from more than 16,300 toddlers between the ages of 19 and 35 months in 2019. The results showed that approximately 73% completed the recommended seven-vaccine series, which protects against a range of diseases including diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), tetanus, polio, measles, mumps, rubella, hepatitis B, Haemophilus influenzae type b, varicella, and pneumococcal infections.

However, close to 10% of the children did not initiate one or more vaccine series at all. What’s more concerning is that 17.2% began but did not complete one or more multidose vaccine series. Among these children, slightly over 8% needed only one additional vaccine dose to complete the series. Shockingly, 1.1% of the examined toddlers were completely unvaccinated.

Disparities in Vaccination Completion

The study also revealed disparities in completion rates based on race and socioeconomic factors. Black children were less likely to have completed their vaccination series compared to other racial groups. Moreover, the children living in lower-income households and rented homes were up to 30% more likely to have incomplete vaccination series.

Importance of Completing Vaccination Series

Completing the recommended vaccine series on time is crucial to protect children from preventable and potentially life-threatening diseases. Dr. Robert Clarick, an attending physician at Children’s Hospital at Montefiore in Bronx, N.Y., emphasized the significance of timely vaccinations. He stated, “In communities across the country, we have seen multiple outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles and pertussis when vaccination levels have fallen.”

Overcoming Potential Barriers

Moving across state lines and a lack of health insurance were identified as significant factors contributing to incomplete vaccination series. Dr. Clarick discussed the challenges associated with these barriers. Without access to complete vaccine records, there can be hesitancy in administering vaccines that were previously given. Moreover, delays in obtaining records and insurance coverage further complicate the vaccination process. To mitigate these issues, Dr. Clarick recommends establishing care with a new healthcare provider promptly after relocation. It is also crucial to possess an up-to-date copy of the child’s vaccine record.

Education and Cost Considerations

Dr. Gabrina Dixon, the director of Advancing Diversity in Academic Pediatrics and a pediatric hospitalist at Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C., highlighted the role of parental education and the financial aspect. Some parents may have misconceptions about vaccines, leading to hesitancy. It is essential to educate parents and caregivers about the importance of vaccines in preventing transmissible illnesses.

Regarding the financial aspect, many insurances cover the cost of routine vaccinations. However, lack of insurance coverage can be a significant deterrent for families, as they may have to pay out-of-pocket for the vaccines.

The Need for Continued Vaccination Efforts

The importance of completing the routine vaccination series cannot be overstated. Due to vaccinations, illnesses such as varicella and polio have been significantly reduced. Dr. Dixon further emphasized the preventive role of vaccines and stressed the need for children to stay up-to-date with their vaccinations to prevent transmissible diseases such as pertussis.

Conclusion

Completing the recommended vaccination series for toddlers is crucial in protecting them from preventable diseases. Despite various challenges like relocating and lack of insurance, healthcare providers and families must prioritize the timely completion of vaccinations to ensure the health and well-being of children. Continuous efforts to educate parents and caregivers about the importance of vaccines can further contribute to a higher vaccination rate, ultimately preventing outbreaks and safeguarding communities.

For further information, you can refer to the full vaccine schedule for toddlers.