St. Lawrence County Childhood Vaccination Rates Highlight Areas for Improvement
Canton, NY — Vaccine coverage data from the New York State Department of Health shows that childhood vaccination rates for Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) and Polio vary by ZIP code in St. Lawrence County. Data are not included for ZIP codes where there are fewer than 20 residents in the eligible age range at the time of data collection.
Overall, about 77% of young children in the county have received the MMR vaccine. Measles is very contagious and can be serious. The report shows that some ZIP codes have high vaccination rates, while others have much lower. In a few areas, fewer than half of young children are fully vaccinated. This means that some towns may be more at risk if a case of measles occurs.
The rate for Polio vaccination is higher at about 80%, but the rates also vary by ZIP code, with the lowest being 9%. The Polio vaccine requires three doses by age two to provide strong protection. Like Measles, Polio can spread more easily in communities where vaccination rates are lower.
This data matters because Measles and Polio are highly contagious diseases that can cause serious illness. Vaccines are safe, effective, and the best way to protect children and the community. When an area has a higher vaccination rate, it helps protect babies who are too young to be fully vaccinated, people with weakened immune systems, older adults, and others at high risk.
Everyone plays a role in keeping their community healthy:
- Check vaccination records for yourself and your children.
- Schedule any missing vaccines with your healthcare provider.
- Talk to friends and family about the importance of staying up to date on routine immunizations.
Keeping vaccination rates high helps protect the entire community. For more information about childhood vaccinations or local resources, please contact our office at 315-386-2325.
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