Student Vaccination Rates Up Around Country

By Lynne Adkins

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Data from the Centers for Disease Control shows that parents are getting their kids vaccinated before school starts. KYW's Lynne Adkins reports state compliance rates are up all over the country.

In Pennsylvania and across the country more and more children are rolling up their sleeves and getting the shots they need to enter school. Holli Senior a spokeswoman for the Pennsylvania Department of Health says when your child gets vaccinated the classroom gets the protection.

"Vaccines not only prevent disease in people who receive them but also protect those who come into contact with unvaccinated individuals including those who are too young to be vaccinated or those who can't be vaccinated for medical reasons. They're among the most successful and cost effective public health tools available for preventing disease," explains Senior.

If you're not sure if your child is up to date on vaccinations, call your pediatrician or the school to see what's needed. Students may opt out for medical or religious reasons.