DHSS Press Release |
Date: April 25, 2008 DHSS-34-2008 |
| Vincent P. Meconi, Secretary Jay Lynch, Communications Director (302) 255-9037, Pager (302) 247-8523 Email: jay.lynch@state.de.us |
Contact: Reporters Phone: 302-744-4907 |
DELAWARE RECOGNIZED FOR IMPROVING INFANT IMMUNIZATION RATES
The Division of Public Health's (DPH) immunization program was recently recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as the fourth most improved state in tracking the basic immunization series from 2003-2006. The National Immunization Survey reports that Delaware's childhood immunization rates increased by 21.4 percent, between 2003 and 2006. The state's rate of 80.3 percent in 2006 was above the national target rate of 80 percent and much higher than the then recorded national rate of 77.1 percent.
The increased rates are the result of more young children in Delaware receiving complete vaccinations, which include four doses of diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, three doses for polio, one dose for measles, three for Haemophilus influenza type b, three for hepatitis B, and one for chickenpox.
"This serves as an inspiration for DPH to keep pushing for greater vaccine coverage among Delaware's children." said Jill Rogers, chief of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention. Rogers said the improvement was the result of continuing collaboration between DPH, parents, healthcare providers and other stakeholders.
Through outreach, education and advertising to providers and caregivers, DPH's immunization program ensures that vaccines are accessible by removing barriers for children who are uninsured, under-insured or on Medicaid. The program used its registry to connect parents and providers to immunization records, ensuring that vaccines are given on time.
For more information about infant immunizations contact DPH's immunization program at 800-282-8672 or visit www.dhss.delaware.gov/dph
Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.
