By David W. Blodgett, MD, MPH SWUPHD Director & Health Officer
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utbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases have been increasing in recent years. You may have heard of mumps outbreaks in Washington County and on college campuses across the nation or measles in Washington State and Disneyland. In our area, pertussis (whooping cough) is frequently diagnosed and is becoming more common.
Some parents are choosing not to vaccinate their children; Utah is one of 17 states that allow children to attend school with an exemption from required vaccines because of personal beliefs. Other states allow exemptions for medical reasons - like an allergy to the vaccine - or for religious beliefs. Declining vaccination
HEALTH MAGAZINE | SPRING 2019