Mississippi leads nation in childhood immunizations

We’re No. 1 in childhood immunizations

GULFPORT -- The state Health Department announced today that Mississippi is the national leader -- ranked No. 1 -- in immunizing 2- and 3-year-olds, according to data released by the National Immunization Survey.

The NIS also designated Mississippi “most improved,” because in the 2008-2009 fiscal year, Mississippi ranked 18th.

Mississippi has an average immunization rate of 81.1 percent for the major childhood vaccinations for children 19 to 35 months of age (including DTaP, Polio, MMR, and other recommended vaccinations).

That exceeds the national average rate of 71.5 percent.

It is the Mississippi Department of Health that gives about 40 percent of all childhood vaccinations. Private providers give about 60 percent.

“Our immunization nurses in health department clinics and health care providers -- especially pediatricians and family practitioners -- across the state have been essential in achieving this goal,” said Dr. Mary Currier, state health officer. “We focus on making sure each child has the best possible protection against vaccine-preventable diseases.”