Vaccine Tips: Prioritizing Children's Health for a Healthy School Year

As the back - to - school season approaches , state health leaders are urging parents to prioritize their children 's health by ensuring they are up to date on required vaccinations . In Virginia , Dr. Forlano emphasized the importance of getting vaccinated , especially for students entering kindergarten , 7th grade , or 12th grade . She noted that while only about two percent of students have exemptions , there has been a significant increase in vaccine - preventable diseases like whooping cough in the state . For example , in the first six months of 2024 , Virginia saw up to a seven - fold increase in pertussis cases compared to the same period in 2023.

Parents shared their concerns about keeping their families healthy during the school year , acknowledging the increased risk of exposure to illnesses when children return to classrooms . Health experts stressed the importance of preparation and urged families to review the list of required vaccinations to ensure their children are protected . It 's crucial for students to be vaccinated to prevent the spread of diseases and maintain a healthy school environment.

Meanwhile , in Ohio , there are concerns about low vaccination rates among the youngest school children . Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff , director of the Ohio Department of Health , expressed worry over the declining percentage of kindergartners who meet all vaccination requirements . Data from the department showed a decrease in vaccination rates from the 2022 - 2023 school year to the 2023 - 2024 school year , with the numbers falling below the ideal rate for herd immunity.

Experts like Dr. Paul Offit highlighted the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on vaccination rates , noting that fear of gathering in medical settings and a false sense of security due to vaccine success have contributed to lower vaccination rates . Ohio has also seen an increase in nonmedical exemptions to childhood vaccines , with a record percentage of kindergartners receiving exemptions for various reasons . This trend is concerning as it could jeopardize efforts to achieve herd immunity and protect vulnerable populations from preventable diseases.

In light of these challenges , health officials are emphasizing the importance of vaccination as a critical tool in safeguarding public health . By ensuring that children receive all required vaccinations , families can contribute to a safer school environment and help prevent the resurgence of vaccine - preventable diseases . It is essential for parents to stay informed about vaccination requirements and make informed decisions to protect their children 's health and well - being.