As the wait continues for a COVID-19 vaccine, California children have fallen behind on their regular immunizations because fewer families were taking them to doctor’s appointments in the spring due to shelter in place orders.
Childhood vaccination rates statewide fell by half in April and are currently lower than rates last year at this time.
Yvonne Maldonado, Professor of Pediatrics, Epidemiology and Population Health at Stanford University, told KCBS Radio that recent studies show immunization rates plummeted in some places as much as 80% in young children.
Because of that, she said, providers are encouraging families to make appointments, primarily for vaccinations of children under two years old.
"Those are the most important vaccinations, which will prevent the biggest burden of disease and potential death in children," said Maldonado.
Parents may be afraid their children will catch something at a doctor's office, such as COVID-19, but Maldonado said that pediatricians are accustomed to dealing with infectious diseases and are following the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and health departments.
"They’re very good at controlling their office spaces to make sure that people are safe," Maldonado added.
If kids aren't vaccinated, health officials fear there could be outbreaks of other diseases, such as measles and pertussis (whooping cough), as the pandemic continues.
