Last Thursday, Austin city leaders commemorated the 30th anniversary of the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program amidst Texas's worst measles outbreak in decades. The spread of this highly contagious disease, mostly affecting unvaccinated individuals, has led to over 400 confirmed cases in Texas since January and the death of one child. Austin health officials attribute the resurgence of measles to declining vaccination rates, which currently stand at only 83.7% for kindergartners in Austin ISD, significantly lower than other major Texas districts, sparking renewed advocacy for vaccine access and education.
"The Vaccines for Children Program was started 30 years ago as the country was dealing with a measles outbreak, and only ten years later the virus was deemed eradicated in the U.S.," said Dr. Desmar Walkes. "Unfortunately, our vaccination rates have dropped, allowing measles to rear its head again."
Austin city leaders have intensified efforts to promote vaccine access and advocacy, especially amid rising vaccine hesitancy and disinformation that poses risks, particularly to children.
As measles outbreaks resurge, the VFC program has been crucial, providing over 3 million free vaccine doses since 1994, aimed at uninsured and underinsured children in Travis County.
Currently, Austin Independent School District shows troubling vaccination rates at just 83.7%, falling short compared to other major districts in Texas, highlighting the urgent need for improved vaccination efforts.
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