School is a crucial time for every child’s development. It’s a place where they learn new things, form friendships, and explore the world with like-minded peers. Behind the scenes of this growth, one essential factor ensures their well-being and ability to thrive: vaccination.
In Tennessee, the 2022–2023 school year marked a significant achievement, with an impressive 95.4% immunization rate among kindergartners — well above the national average of approximately 93%. While not overtly visible throughout the year, this success is an achievement to strive for every year to ensure that children can enjoy their time at school. However, while we wait to see what trend Tennessee has this year, the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has already indicated that the 2023–2024 school year continued declines in vaccination coverage.
The Challenge of Declining Rates
While Tennessee’s rates have been commendable for that specific year, the broader national picture presents a cause for concern. According to the CDC, vaccination coverage among U.S. kindergartners decreased across all reported vaccines during the 2023–2024 school year. Coverage for diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis vaccine (DTaP) dropped to 92.3%, and measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination rates declined to 92.7%. Exemptions also increased from 3.0% to 3.3%.
When vaccination rates drop, multiple diseases can spread simultaneously, making diagnosis more challenging, straining healthcare systems, disrupting schools, and increasing severe illness rates. Measles, a highly contagious but preventable disease, can rapidly spread in areas with low vaccine coverage. Seasonal influenza poses a significant yearly threat while emerging COVID-19 variants remind us of the need for ongoing vaccination efforts. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) has also surged recently, causing severe illness in young children and older adults. This overlap of illnesses can overwhelm hospitals, increase school absenteeism, and potentially lead to complex health challenges beyond the reach of existing vaccines.
Why Vaccination Matters
Vaccines are among the most effective tools for preventing disease. While measures like washing hands, covering your mouth when coughing, and staying home when sick can help reduce the spread of infection, none are as effective as vaccination. With vaccination rates declining, exemptions on the rise, and increased global travel just around the corner, the threat of vaccine-preventable diseases spreading in our communities is real.
In Tennessee, maintaining and improving immunization rates is especially critical. In 2024, the state reported its first measles case since 2019. Although the case was isolated, it serves as a stark reminder of how easily a disease like measles can be contracted and potentially spread.
A Shared Responsibility
Tennessee’s immunization success in 2022–2023 is an achievement worth celebrating — one that reflects the collective effort and serious commitment to combating disease. However, with national immunization trends for 2023–2024 showing a decline, gaps in the system could leave communities vulnerable as 2025 begins.
The best way to address this is to review your child’s vaccination schedule and book an appointment. Ensuring Tennessee meets national immunization goals contributes to the state’s health and the well-being of communities across the U.S.
Sources:
Tennessee Department of Health: Tennessee Department of Health Confirms First Positive Measles Case in the State Since 2019
