You might be worried about your children under 12 contracting the Delta variant. If you have little ones in school, you’re likely constantly checking for their masks, ensuring they have extras, and sanitizing their hands. You may have even shed a few tears of gratitude with the news of vaccines becoming available for younger kids. But here’s the crucial question: are your kids current on their routine childhood vaccinations?
If your answer is “uh, but COVID,” it’s time for a reality check. Research from both the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics indicates that routine vaccinations for children have significantly declined during the pandemic, and this poses a serious risk. The CDC reported a drop in MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccinations by a median of 22% for children aged 12-23 months and 63% for those aged 2-8 years. DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis) vaccinations also fell by almost 16% for kids under 24 months and 60% for those aged 2-6 years. While some parents attempted to catch up on missed vaccines, it wasn’t enough to offset the decline.
A study published in Pediatrics showed that MMR vaccination rates for children under 16 months significantly decreased when comparing 2019 to 2020, with the trend worsening over time. Across all age groups, measles vaccination coverage remains lower than pre-pandemic levels.
The Urgency of Catching Up on Vaccinations
It’s been a year and a half since the pandemic began. Pediatricians have adapted to safely manage sick and well children, and your kids have learned to mask and sanitize. The fear of COVID at a doctor’s office is no longer a valid excuse. Your children are likely exposed to germs from classmates who may not be as careful with their hygiene. The reality is that they are safer at the pediatrician’s office than they are in school.
Epidemiologists are voicing serious concerns about a potential rise in outbreaks of diseases like measles and whooping cough. Yvonne Maldonado, a leading figure at the American Academy of Pediatrics, expressed that as families resume normal activities, the risk of these dangerous diseases spreading increases.
While you might be focused on the Delta variant, it’s crucial to consider the risks of measles if your child is not up to date on their vaccinations. Renowned epidemiologist William Schaffner from Vanderbilt University highlighted that the US vaccination program has been successful in public health, but he warns of a potential decline in immunity against diseases like measles and mumps due to the current situation.
The Danger of Measles and Other Diseases
Remember the measles outbreaks in cities like New York in 2018-2019? In 2019, the US recorded 1,249 cases, a stark contrast to just 13 cases the following year, largely due to pandemic-related restrictions. Measles requires a vaccination coverage of 93-95% to achieve herd immunity, yet outbreaks like the one in Rockland County had only 77% coverage. Parents often lack awareness of their child’s vaccination status, as many schools do not track this information effectively.
With international travel resuming, diseases such as measles are now only a flight away. The CDC reported a hospitalization rate of 10% for measles, which poses a far greater risk than COVID for children. Pediatric ICUs are already overwhelmed with COVID cases, and you definitely don’t want to add another illness on top of that.
Wider Implications of Unvaccinated Children
The decrease in vaccination rates is alarming not only for measles but also for other diseases like mumps and HPV. Rates of HPV vaccinations for children aged 9-12 dropped by 64% and by 71% for those aged 13-17 compared to previous years. Todd Wolynn, a pediatric expert, points out that while 90% of HPV cases are cleared naturally, the remaining 10% can lead to serious health issues, including cancer.
There are also concerns about pertussis (whooping cough) and other contagious diseases. The time to act is now—if you’re waiting for a COVID vaccine while neglecting your child’s routine immunizations, you’re failing in your public health responsibility.
In conclusion, it’s imperative to prioritize all vaccinations, not just COVID-19. So, put on a mask, take your child to the doctor, and ensure they’re protected. The health of your child and the community depends on it.
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Summary:
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a significant decline in childhood vaccinations, putting children at risk for diseases like measles and whooping cough. Parents are urged to catch up on routine immunizations as epidemiologists warn of potential outbreaks. Vaccination rates for crucial vaccines have dropped dramatically, raising concerns about public health and safety. It’s essential to prioritize comprehensive immunization for children to ensure their health and the health of the community.
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