Vaccination in the US: Only 50 Percent of American Kids Under Two Years are Fully Vaccinated

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A new study reveals that less than half of children under aged six months to 23 months are fully vaccinated against influenza. Although there has been a significant increase in the previous years, the number still falls short of the recommendation from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The number of infants who received flu shots during flu season increased from less than five percent in 2002 and 20013 to almost 45 percent in 2011 and 2012, reports Reuters. However, this means there are still many infants and toddlers who are vulnerably exposed to the virus that can lead to hospitalizations, pneumonia and, worse, death.

"While flu vaccination for children has gone up, there is still a long way to go to protect every child," said study lead researcher Tammy Santibanez, an epidemiologist with CDC's National Immunization Program, reports Medical Express.

The study examined survey data on vaccination rates on over 10 flu seasons to check how many children got fully immunized and assess variations based on race and the number of required doses, reports Reuters.

It was found that black and Hispanic children had lower rates of vaccination compared to white children. Complete vaccination coverage was found higher among children who needed only one dose compared to those needing two doses.

Researchers noted that, during 2011-2012 flu season, 49 percent of white children were vaccinated compared to 40 percent of Hispanic children and 35 percent of black children.

"We also know that more effort needs to be put into encouraging black parents and children, and Hispanic parents and children to get the flu vaccine," said Santibanez.

Those children who needed two doses and already got the first shot, only 64 percent of them proceeded to take the second shot.

The doses depend on age and vaccination history of the children to be fully protected, reports CDC. A number of children aging six months through 8 months may need two doses, including those vaccinated for the first time. CDC suggests consulting with your doctor for the exact dose your child needs.

Chicago Tribune reports that flu is a serious and potentially life-threatening illness to children. An average of 20,000 children under five years of age are hospitalized each year. This is mainly caused by complications from the flu. Last year's flu season recorded more than 140 children fatalities from the flu, CDC states.

The authors conclude that health officials need to do a better job of outreach when it comes to early childhood flu vaccination, according to Reuters. Both parents and doctors should work together to ensure children are fully vaccinated.

Check out this video to know more about flu vaccine: