County Study Finds Many Kids Not Current with Vaccinations

About 300,000 teenagers in San Diego County were not current with their vaccinations, according to survey data from 2009-10, the county's Health and Human Services Agency reported today.

The figures were released in advance of Preteen Vaccine Week, Feb. 12-18.

The highest vaccination rate was 81 percent for chickenpox. About half of the region's female adolescents received shots for human papillomavirus, or HPV, and immunizations are now required for males, too.

The HHSA reported 47 percent of teens had their meningitis and pertussis shots, and 30 percent were vaccinated for influenza.

"These adolescent diseases can be prevented," said Dr. Wilma Wooten, the county public health officer. "Vaccinating your children is the best line of defense."

Wooten said everyone 6 months and older should receive an annual flu shot. Two doses of flu vaccine are recommended for children 8 years and younger who are receiving it for the first time, otherwise only one dose is recommended, she said.

Two doses of chickenpox vaccine are recommended for unvaccinated adolescents who have not had the disease, according to the HHSA.

Students need to show proof they received the pertussis booster shot before starting school, beginning in the seventh grade.

—City News Service