US kindergarten vaccination rates have dropped to a 33-year low, with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine coverage falling from 92.7% in 2023-24 to 92.5% in 2024-25. This decline represents thousands of unprotected children, increasing the country’s vulnerability to outbreaks.
The latest data shows that an estimated 286,000 young children lack full protection against measles. The nation has seen numerous large-scale measles outbreaks, with case counts already exceeding any previous year since 2000. Experts attribute this downward trend to anti-vaccine sentiments and misinformation, which are eroding the nation’s ability to control infectious diseases.
In 2019-20, 95% of kindergartners were protected against serious childhood diseases like polio. However, vaccination rates have continued to decline, with coverage dropping from 95% in 2020-21 to 92.5% in 2024-25. The rise of non-medical exemptions, often driven by ideology, is a significant concern, as health experts warn that this can lead to outbreaks and spread infectious diseases.
The influence of anti-vaccine advocates like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has contributed to the decline in vaccination rates, with non-medical exemptions reaching a new high for 2024-25 school year. As measles cases surge, it is essential to address these concerns and promote vaccine awareness to prevent future outbreaks.
Source: https://arstechnica.com/health/2025/08/under-rfk-jr-cdc-skips-study-on-vaccination-rates-quietly-posts-data-on-drop