Assessment of kindergarten immunization rates in Colorado: school self-reports vs. health department audits, 2004-2005.

In 2005, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment audited a sample of kindergarten school records to determine vaccination coverage at school entry. In addition to the audit, the traditional method of collecting immunization data by self-reports from schools continued through that school year. The results of the two surveys were compared.

Has the United States population been adequately vaccinated to achieve rubella elimination?

Mathematical models indicate that elimination of rubella virus transmission requires maintenance of approximately 90% rubella immunity among children. To evaluate whether rubella vaccination coverage among US preschool and school-age children is at levels consistent with rubella elimination, we reviewed data from 3 sources: (1) the Biologics Surveillance, which documents the net number of vaccine doses sold (1970-2004); (2) state immunization surveys of school entrants 5-6 years of age (1980-2005); and (3) the National Immunization Survey of children 19-35 months of age (1995-2004). Vaccine biologics data show that the net number of rubella vaccine doses sold was at least equivalent to the number of children born each year during 1970-2004.

Immunization requirements for childcare programs. Are they enough?

Background: School immunization legislation has resulted in high vaccination coverage rates and low rates of vaccine-preventable disease among school children. Similar legislation has been directed toward children in licensed and regulated childcare programs. The purpose of this investigation was to compare immunization coverage among children in and not in childcare.