Chicago Public Schools Achieve 95% Measles Vaccination Rate

Recent data from Chicago Public Schools (CPS) indicates a positive trend in vaccination rates against measles, with coverage rising by approximately 3%. This increase brings the percentage of vaccinated students back to the critical threshold of 95%, a benchmark necessary for achieving herd immunity and preventing outbreaks.

Historically, CPS has witnessed a decline in measles vaccinations, prompting concern among health officials. The latest figures reveal that more students are now receiving the vaccine, a crucial step in protecting public health. “It’s really important for us to vaccinate our kids against measles to prevent the disease and lifelong illness,” stated Dr. Payal Adhikari of Northwestern Children’s Practice.

The 95% vaccination rate is significant, as it is the level health experts consider essential for community immunity. “It’s super significant, especially when we are teetering on that 95% line,” Dr. Adhikari added. More than two decades ago, measles was declared eradicated in the United States, but a steady decline in vaccination rates has led to outbreaks across the country.

As of 2024, CPS had seen a troubling drop in vaccination rates, with some schools falling below the herd immunity threshold. This decline raised alarms among health leaders. “We work extremely closely with CPS,” said Dr. Brian Borah, the medical director for vaccine-preventable disease surveillance at the Chicago Department of Public Health. “I’m really thankful and glad the numbers are improving, but of course, that doesn’t mean our work has stopped.”

In light of these developments, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is convening to discuss childhood vaccination schedules and potential updates to recommendations. Meanwhile, health officials in Chicago continue to advocate for vaccination. “We’re a city that protects each other. We believe in science,” Dr. Borah emphasized.

Dr. Adhikari echoed this sentiment, stating, “The science has proven over and over again they’re safe and they’re effective.” The Chicago Department of Public Health has launched initiatives aimed at improving vaccination rates, particularly for measles, in response to rising cases in both the state and nationwide.

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has also taken proactive measures to bolster vaccination rates. Over the past year, IDPH has implemented several initiatives, including a mobile vaccination service and the creation of dashboards to track school-level vaccine coverage. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to enhance vaccine communication and accessibility throughout the state.

In a statement, the IDPH highlighted its commitment to increasing vaccine access and education. “We are actively working in partnership with the Governor’s Office, the Immunization Advisory Council, and local health departments to ensure that all communities have the resources and information they need,” the department reported.

As Chicago Public Schools celebrates this milestone in vaccination rates, health officials remain vigilant. The focus now shifts to maintaining these rates and continuing to promote the importance of vaccinations to safeguard public health.