The immunization status of young children is a positive predictor of avoidance of illness, death, disability, or developmental delays associated with immunization-preventable diseases.  Maryland’s 2016 immunization coverage was above the national average for children aged 19 through 35 months, at 74.4% versus the national average of 70.7% for the recommended full 7 vaccine schedule.  Maryland has been above the national average for the last five years.  

In order to maintain Maryland’s vaccination rates above the national rate, the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) continues to work with private vaccine providers through an initiative known as VFC/AFIX (Assessment, Feedback, Incentive, Exchange).  VFC/AFIX is an analytical and quality improvement tool that involves annual visits to physicians’ offices, where patient charts are reviewed to ensure immunization records are up-to-date.  In those instances where the records are incomplete, the physician is urged to correct the missed opportunity.  In addition to VFC/AFIX and other provider focused efforts, MDH is also working with parents to further increase vaccination rates among this age population and reach the Healthy People 2020 goal of 80%.  

Percent of children 19-35 months of age who have received the full schedule of recommended immunizations.

https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/imz-managers/coverage/childvaxview/data-reports/7-series/index.html