By Atlantic Health Partners

As summer comes to a close, children and their families across the U.S. are returning or preparing to return to school. Vaccines are a critical preventative measure for keeping students and teachers healthy and protecting them against harmful illnesses. Here’s what you need to know about pediatric immunizations in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

State immunization requirements have been implemented since as early as 1853 to help increase vaccine uptake. While each state is responsible for determining which vaccines are required in order for a child to attend school, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers helpful guidelines on the recommended immunizations for children 18 years and younger. Today, all 50 states have legislation requiring vaccinations. 

Earlier this year, World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF data showed the largest decline in childhood vaccinations globally in 30 years. As students begin their new school year, restoring these immunization rates and getting children and adolescents caught up on missed vaccinations is critical to ensuring a safe, healthy learning environment.

Why have immunization rates declined?
Prior to the pandemic, providers typically had the opportunity to ensure their pediatric patients received necessary vaccinations over the summer. However, due to a variety of COVID-related disruptions, including a shift to virtual learning, increased vaccine hesitancy and decreased access to nonemergency care, there has been a 70% decline in outpatient pediatric care visits that could have been opportunities to administer critical vaccines. Many providers are working to break down these barriers by implementing innovative strategies and partnerships aimed at helping children get up to date on their vaccines.

Impact of low vaccination rates 
With stay-at-home orders lifted, the majority of schools across the country have transitioned from remote to in-person learning, increasing the risk of exposure to illnesses in the classroom. Beyond reducing the number of sick days at home, staying on track with recommended immunizations is key to supporting children’s short- and long-term health. Younger immune systems have not fully matured and are more susceptible to severe cases of diseases, with greater potential for lasting impact. For example, a 2021 study found that missing or delaying DTaP doses is linked to higher pertussis (whooping cough) risk in children. 

The CDC recommends a series of 18 vaccines for children ages 18 and younger. While minimum vaccination requirements are unique to each state, these vaccinations are mandated in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., in order to attend public school:

• Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (DTaP)
• Polio
• Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR)
• Varicella

As pediatric patients return to the classroom, physicians can use their upcoming appointments as timely opportunities to revisit their immunization history and remind families of the importance of staying up to date with recommended vaccines.

Atlantic Health Partners, the nation’s largest vaccine buying group, offers ISMA members the most favorable vaccine pricing and terms. To learn more, email Cindy or Jeff at info@atlantichealthpartners.com; or call 800-741-2044.