Childhood Vaccinations in California County Increase, Though Racial Disparity Still Exists
More children in Contra Costa County, Calif., since 2000 have received recommended vaccinations by age two, but the rate remains lower for the county's minority populations, the Contra Costa Times reports.
Erika Jenssen, immunization coordinator for Contra Costa Public Health, said more than 75% of all children in the county have received their recommended infant and toddler vaccinations by age two. The figure represents a 12% increase since 2000.
About 65% of black children and 72% of Hispanic children are immunized, compared with 85% of white children, according to 2006 immunization statistics.
Jenssen said that progress is being made to reduce the disparity, adding that the rate of black children receiving immunizations has risen by 17% since 2000 (Treadway, Contra Costa Times, 5/2).