2 weeks Ago By Juliette Kessler
Despite measles outbreaks lighting up in several states, California is holding strong with kindergarten MMR vaccination rates that soar above the national average. The California Department of Public Health's (CDPH) latest report stated that 95% of kindergartners have received the MMR vaccine, a threshold considered critical to prevent widespread transmission of these contagious diseases. This achievement, according to Dr.
Erica Pan, CDPH Director, is a direct result of the state's stringent immunization requirements for schoolchildren. While over 378 measles cases were reported across 18 states as of Thursday, a stark contrast to California's eight confirmed cases — all linked to international travel. This difference is glaring, especially against the backdrop of lower vaccination rates and grievances in places like Texas and New Mexico where measles has hit hard with mortality, rates in these regions have dipped as low as 82%.
"With recent outbreaks of measles in other states, we can’t stress enough how important it is to stay current with vaccinations," Dr. Pan told CDPH . The department is doubling down on reminders for Californians, especially those traveling, to be proactive with their immunization schedule.
Statistics show more reassuring numbers like 94% of kindergarten students in California received all required immunizations for the 2023-24 school year, maintaining a track record of high immunization completion rates for the state's youngest cohorts. However, rates varied slightly between public and private schools, with a minor uptick in private school vaccinations and a slight drop among public school students. But overall, the state's immunization figures are still eclipsing national averages reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
As CDPH heralds the importance of vaccinations, they're also ensuring accessibility is at the forefront, urging everyone 12 months and older to get two MMR doses and offering resources for individuals struggling to get vaccinated. Despite, high insurance coverage for MMR vaccines, healthcare providers and local health departments are ready to bridge any gaps by assisting those in need. Californians traveling to measles outbreak zones are particularly advised to get shots in the arm two to three weeks before departure — a necessary preparation to build optimal protection, according to CDPH .
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