WASHINGTON – The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has seen a decline in childhood vaccinations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The agency’s director says parents need to make sure their children are up to date on their shots.
“On-time vaccination throughout childhood is essential because it helps to provide immunity before children are exposed to potentially life-threatening diseases,” said Dr. Rochelle Walensky last week. “During the pandemic, we have seen substantial declines in pediatrician visits, and because of this, CDC orders for childhood vaccinations dropped by about 11 million doses, a substantial and historic decline.”
Dr. Walensky says as the nation works to get children back to school, we do not want to encounter other preventable infectious outbreaks, such as Measles and Mumps.
“When planning for your child’s safe return to childcare programs or to school, please check with your child’s doctor to make sure that they are up to date on their vaccines,” furthered Walensky.
There are 14 different vaccinations that the CDC recommends children get. Health experts say getting the vaccines on time is important to ensure the strongest immunity as well.
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