COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
As the back-to-school season approaches, parents in Columbia can attend a special immunization event at the Columbia/Boone County Health and Human Services building this Saturday. It’s a great chance to ensure kids are up-to-date on their vaccines.
The World Health Organization recommends that vaccination rates be at least 95% to achieve strong herd immunity. However, recent data from the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services shows a worrying trend: school immunization rates are declining across the state.
From 2023 to 2024, school vaccination rates for whooping cough, measles, and chickenpox fell below 91%. Other vaccines like Hepatitis B and Polio fared slightly better, with rates at 93.6% and 91.2%, respectively.
Just last month, Cedar and Taney County in Southwest Missouri faced a measles outbreak, tallying seven confirmed cases. This highlights the urgent need for vaccinations, especially as many counties, including Boone and Cole, have kindergarten vaccination rates around 94% for measles.
Interestingly, Boone County had to end its school flu shot clinics after losing over $800,000 in federal funding in March. This financial setback underlines the challenges local health departments are facing.
The immunization event will run from 9 a.m. to noon this Saturday. Another opportunity is scheduled for August 16. The Columbia/Boone County Health and Human Services department also offers vaccine appointments throughout the year.
Staying informed about vaccination can help keep our communities safe. With the ongoing trend of declining rates, it’s vital to take action.
