Oregon Kindergarten Vaccine Exemptions Reach Record High

Oregon's rising nonmedical vaccine exemption rate among kindergartners poses a significant public health risk. The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) reports that 9.7% of kindergartners have nonmedical exemptions, meaning they are not vaccinated due to personal, religious, or philosophical reasons. This is up from 8.8% the previous year and places Oregon among the states with the highest exemption rates.

This trend weakens community immunity, making it easier for diseases like measles to spread. Health officials emphasize that vaccination is the most effective defense against such diseases, protecting not only vaccinated children but also those who cannot be vaccinated due to age or medical conditions.

While the majority of Oregon families still choose to vaccinate their children (86.3% fully vaccinated in 2025), the declining rates are a cause for concern. The OHA is working to increase awareness and education about the importance of vaccines to bolster public confidence in vaccination programs. They offer resources and support for families needing access to vaccines.

A nonmedical exemption allows parents or guardians to opt out of vaccinating their children for personal, religious, or philosophical reasons.

Increased exemptions weaken community immunity, making outbreaks of preventable diseases more likely.

What are your thoughts on the increasing number of vaccine exemptions? Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!