Experts sound the alarm on the rise of vaccine exemptions in Wisconsin

According to a recently published article, nearly two dozen schools in Dane County have vaccination rates of 85 percent or lower, which health officials deem a risk for disease outbreaks. This trend is partly attributed to more parents seeking philosophical waivers to exempt their children from vaccines; Wisconsin’s nonmedical exemption rate is more than double the national rate. The overall decline in vaccination rates in the state has sparked discussions on the elimination of personal conviction waivers.

Risk level: Medium

Recommendation: The decline in child vaccination rates across the nation puts children at risk. Pediatricians and family providers in Wisconsin should be aware that parents in the Midwest may be exposed to increased conversations about vaccine exemptions. This could lead to questions, concerns, or skepticism about pediatric immunization.