Why Vaccinations Matter: Understanding Trends and Protecting Communities
Vaccinations have transformed modern public health, drastically reducing the impact of many contagious diseases. Yet, recent years have seen a shift in vaccination trends, raising essential questions about protecting individual and community well-being.
The Crucial Role of Vaccinations
Vaccinations are one of the most effective tools for disease prevention. By immunizing individuals, vaccines prevent the spread of harmful illnesses like measles, mumps, and whooping cough. When a large portion of the community is vaccinated, everyone is protected, especially those who are too young or medically unable to receive vaccines themselves. This wide-reaching protection is called community or herd immunity.
Rising Vaccine Exemptions: A Growing Concern
In Oregon, recent data shows a worrying trend. Nonmedical vaccine exemptions among kindergarteners have reached new record highs. In the current school year, 9.7% of kindergarten students claimed nonmedical exemptions, up from 8.8% the year before. According to KGW News, this marks three consecutive years of rising exemptions, with state health officials expressing concern over the long-term effects.
Dr. Paul Cieslak, from the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), emphasizes that increased vaccine exemptions weaken community immunity. As more families opt out for nonmedical reasons, outbreaks of diseases that vaccines almost eradicated become more likely. The Oregon Health Authority reported that 9.7% of Oregon kindergartners are now unvaccinated for nonmedical reasons—the highest rate the state has ever seen.
Why Are Vaccination Rates Declining?
Several factors contribute to increasing exemption rates. Some parents have concerns about vaccine safety or misunderstand the risks of vaccine-preventable diseases. Widespread misinformation on social media can also fuel doubts and lead to decisions that put children and communities at risk. Health experts stress that vaccines have a strong safety record and that severe reactions are extremely rare.
Community Protection: The Impact of Immunization
Robust immunization coverage does more than protect individuals. It helps shield everyone, including those who can't be vaccinated due to age or health conditions. As Stacy de Assis Matthews from the OHA notes, “Robust vaccination coverage not only protects individual children but also safeguards those who cannot be vaccinated… helping protect our communities in Oregon.”
Measles, for example, is highly contagious and can cause severe complications, especially in young children. In 2025, the U.S. saw 1,001 measles cases by early May, with 96% of them occurring among unvaccinated people, as highlighted by state health officials.
Accessing Vaccination Resources
For families in Oregon, several resources make it easier to get necessary vaccinations. The Vaccines for Children program provides free or low-cost immunizations for those eligible, including children on Medicaid or those without insurance. Local health departments can also help with information or appointments. Further guidance is available from the Oregon Health Authority, where parents and caregivers can find up-to-date requirements and resources.
Conclusion: A Call to Protect Our Communities
Vaccinations are a cornerstone of public health. As exemption rates rise, the risk for outbreaks increases, endangering both individuals and communities. Staying informed and up-to-date on vaccinations is a responsibility that benefits everyone. For more information on vaccination trends and resources, consult state health agencies and trusted medical professionals.