Child care immunization waiver rate
Current Value
4.1%
Definition
Story Behind the Curve
In 2014, Michigan changed the administrative rules that changed how nonmedical waivers for immunizations will be processed for school and child care programs. The new rule went into effect on January 1, 2015. The new rule did not take away a parent or guardian's right to obtain a nonmedical waiver. Parents or guardians requesting a nonmedical waiver must meet with a MCHD staff to discuss the benefits of vaccinations and the risks of vaccine preventable diseases.
Why Is This Important?
Childcares with high waiver rates are vulnerable to outbreaks of vaccine preventable diseases. "Herd immunity" or when high percentages of the population are vaccinated against diseases protects the residents who cannot receive vaccines due to medical reasons.
Strategy
Historically, Michigan has had one of the highest waiver rates in the country. Research has shown that by making the nonmedical waiver process more challenging, waiver rates will decrease. Macomb County has seen a decrease in the childcare waiver rate since the inception of the new rule.