SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) — As the deadline for school vaccinations approaches, the Oregon Health Authority is urging parents to ensure their children’s immunizations are current to avoid missing school.
Oregon law mandates that all students, from preschools to public schools, must provide proof of vaccinations or valid exemptions by February 25, known as Exclusion Day. Without updated records by this deadline, children will have to stay home until everything is in order.
Vaccines play a crucial role in preventing the spread of highly contagious diseases. Last year, Oregon recorded 1,552 cases of pertussis, the highest in 75 years. This alarming statistic underscores the importance of keeping immunizations up to date.
A recent report from the Oregon Health Authority revealed that many parents seek nonmedical exemptions due to fears about vaccine safety or challenges in scheduling appointments. Nonmedical exemptions have surged to a record 9.7% for the 2024-2025 school year, raising concerns among health experts.
Local health departments have already reached out to families missing required vaccines. In the previous year, over 22,000 letters were sent, resulting in about 4,500 students temporarily excluded from school until their vaccination paperwork was updated.
If you’re unsure about your child’s vaccination status, consider reaching out to your healthcare provider or local health department. You can also visit 211info.org to find vaccination clinics in your area. Importantly, no one is denied vaccinations at county health departments due to inability to pay.
In a broader context, this situation highlights ongoing debates about vaccine hesitancy. A survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation shows that 38% of parents express concerns about vaccine safety, which can influence their decisions. Health experts emphasize the need for clear communication about the benefits of vaccinations to address these fears and ensure community health.
By staying informed and proactive, families can protect their children and contribute to the well-being of the entire community.
