Children vaccination rates drop in 2025, Wisconsin Department of Health Services reports

MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- New numbers from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) show the childhood vaccination rate in Wisconsin is taking another dive. 

In 2025, the number of kids considered up to date on their shots dipped by about 2% compared to 2024. That's down 6% compared to the peak we saw in 2017. 

Health experts warn declines like this can have real impacts in our communities. 

"We've got few kids protected, we've got larger gaps in our community immunity," said Dr. Stephanie Schauer, manager at Wisconsin Immunization Program. "Behind these numbers are really it's children, it's families, it's our community."

Health experts are encouraging families to talk to their doctors if you have questions about your child's vaccine schedule.

Learn more about how to access low-cost vaccine programs HERE. 

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