Date: February 9, 2024
Oregon faces a crucial deadline for child immunizations on February 21, amid rising concerns over vaccine-preventable diseases like measles. This date, known as School Exclusion Day, mandates all children in educational and childcare settings to be up-to-date with vaccinations or have a legal exemption.
Christopher Keizur reports the urgency as noncompliance could see children barred from school or daycare. Last year, over 4,000 children were sent home for failing to meet these requirements. With recent measles outbreaks, the importance of vaccinations is underscored by health officials, including Stacy de Assis Matthews of Oregon Health Authority, who emphasize their role in community health.
Families seeking immunizations are advised to contact healthcare providers or local health departments, with financial barriers addressed by no-cost vaccines for those unable to pay.
As the deadline looms, the community is reminded of the collective responsibility to safeguard children’s health through timely immunizations, ensuring educational participation and public safety.
Call to Action: For vaccination details and support, visit 211info.org or contact local health departments.