In these uncertain times, fear seems to be a common sentiment shared by families everywhere. I completely understand if you’re feeling anxious about sending your children back to school, hesitant to travel to visit relatives, or reluctant to host friends for playdates. However, we must recognize that some risks cannot be overlooked, no matter how concerned we are. One critical risk is the decision to skip vaccinations and routine check-ups with your child’s pediatrician.
The CDC has released a troubling report indicating that many children across the United States are falling behind on their vaccination schedules due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This oversight places them at greater risk for diseases that could be as dangerous, if not more so, than the virus that’s currently keeping them home.
The year 2020 began with vaccination rates already challenged by the dangerous “anti-vax” movement, which spreads misinformation and fear. For instance, Washington state has seen a rise in measles cases as a direct result of this anti-vaccine sentiment. As we navigate through an ongoing pandemic, we certainly don’t need the additional threat of an outbreak of a disease we had previously controlled.
Beyond the influence of anti-vaccine rhetoric, many parents are genuinely fearful of bringing their children to the doctor for routine visits and vaccinations. Some have been adhering strictly to stay-at-home orders, limiting outings to only the most necessary trips. While this fear is understandable, healthcare professionals are emphasizing that well-visits and vaccinations are essential. They are just as crucial to your child’s health as maintaining social distancing, frequent handwashing, and wearing masks.
We must prioritize protecting our children from all contagious diseases, and this requires staying current on their vaccinations.
Recent health reports indicate that in Michigan, for instance, there has been a 22% decline in non-flu vaccine doses administered to children since the national emergency was declared, and vaccine doses for children under two years old have decreased by 16%. Additionally, fewer than half of five-month-olds received their vaccines this May, compared to two-thirds in previous years.
The CDC also highlights that the decline in vaccinations isn’t localized to Michigan alone. They report that between mid-March and mid-April, there were approximately 2.5 million fewer doses of routine non-influenza vaccines ordered nationwide, including 250,000 fewer doses for measles-containing vaccines compared to the same timeframe in 2019.
Doctors are genuinely worried—not just about COVID-19. Sean T. Anderson, M.D., a member of the AAP Committee on Infectious Diseases, expressed concerns about the significant drop in vaccination rates and the potential for outbreaks as a result. Similarly, AAP President Clara J. Rodriguez, M.D., has described the findings as “incredibly worrying” and urges families to schedule appointments to catch up on immunizations and check-ups.
Routine health visits address not only vaccinations but also ensure that children receive vital physical exams and developmental screenings. Dr. Rodriguez adds that missing these visits can leave kids vulnerable in numerous other ways.
To ease the concerns of parents and encourage vaccinations, pediatricians are implementing several measures during this pandemic. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, this includes scheduling well-checks and sick visits at different times, maintaining physical separation between patients, and rigorously sanitizing their offices. They also stress the importance of communicating these measures to families to help them feel more comfortable returning to the clinic.
For added reassurance, Dr. Anderson emphasizes that medical facilities have become some of the safest places to be, due to extensive precautions taken to prevent the spread of COVID-19. He urges parents not to shy away from seeking medical care for their children.
As states begin to ease stay-at-home restrictions, we must remain vigilant. Children who haven’t received their vaccinations will remain at heightened risk for contagious diseases. The CDC reminds us that vaccination is essential, especially as we navigate life alongside COVID-19. Protecting our children from serious vaccine-preventable illnesses must remain a priority, even as social distancing guidelines are relaxed.
In summary, while we await the development of a vaccine for COVID-19, it is vital to ensure that our children are safeguarded against other preventable diseases. Take the necessary steps to get your kids back on track with their vaccinations and well-visits—because their health depends on it. For more information on the importance of vaccinations, check out this insightful post here and to learn about effective insemination methods, visit Make a Mom.