OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) is reminding parents to ensure their children are up to date on required immunizations before the new school year begins.
State data shows that while immunization rates for the 2024-25 school year remained steady with the previous year, overall rates have struggled since the COVID-19 pandemic, the DOH said in a release.
Notably, DOH said Washington experienced a significant rise in whooping cough cases in 2024 due to declining DTaP vaccination rates.
“Keeping children up to date on required immunizations is one of the most important ways we can protect their health and keep them learning,” said Jamilia Sherls, director of the Office of Immunization, DOH. “These vaccines help prevent illness, reduce missed school days, and protect classmates, teachers and family members—keeping our communities safer.”
To assist families, the Childhood Vaccine Program offers free or low-cost vaccines for children under 19. Additionally, MyIR Mobile allows families to track immunization history and receive reminders.
