PHOM Indicator Profile Report of Immunizations: recommended immunizations by age 24 months

Why Is This Important?

Immunizations are the most cost-effective health prevention measures. Development of vaccinations had been cited by the U.S. Public Health Service as one of the Ten Great Public Health Achievements in the 20th Century^1^. Vaccines play an essential role in reducing and eliminating disease. By two years of age, it is recommended that all children should have received 4 doses of Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTP), 3 doses of Polio, 1 dose of Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR), 3 doses of Hepatitis B, full series of ''Haemophilus influenzae'' type B (Hib) (3 of 4 doses depending on product type received), 1 dose of Varicella, and 4 doses of Pneumococcal vaccines. This recommendation is referred to in shorthand as "4:3:1:3:3:1:4." [[br]][[br]] ---- 1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (1999). Achievements in Public Health, 1900-1999: Impact of vaccines universally recommended for children -- United States 1990-1998. ''Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report,'' Vol. 48, (12);243-248. Atlanta, GA.

Data Source

National Immunization Survey, National Center for Health Statistics, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Data Notes

* 3 or 4 doses of ''Haemophilus influenzae'' type b conjugate vaccine, depending on vaccine type. This data is from the National Immunization Survey (NIS). NIS reports these vaccine coverage estimates for 24-month-old children by birth year (i.e. 2023 survey data contains estimates for the 24-month-old children from birth year 2021).

How Are We Doing?

Coverage levels in Utah have generally increased in the past 8 years from 67.2% of 2-year-old children fully immunized in 2013 to 79.0% in 2020. It should be noted that the estimate for this measure decreased from 79.0% in 2020 to 74.9% in 2023. However, the estimate of coverage in children aged 24 months for 2023 is preliminary and will be revised with the coming year's survey estimate as more children in this birth cohort are added to the survey results. These data typically fluctuate from year to year and it is useful to look at 5-10 year trends to gain a clear understanding of how well children are being immunized in Utah.

What Is Being Done?

The Utah Department of Health and Human Services Immunization Program conducts annual assessments of private and public health care providers' immunization records to obtain state immunization levels. During these site visits, Utah Immunization Program provider representatives also train clinic staff on appropriate vaccine storage, handling, and administration according to the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended practices. Utah also has immunization coalitions that are working to maintain or improve current levels of immunization and to increase public awareness of immunizations. The Utah Statewide Immunization Information System (USIIS) provides a mechanism for health care providers to track patient immunizations and send reminder cards to Utah parents whose children are due for immunizations. The USIIS also includes adult immunizations such as pneumonia, tetanus, and influenza. Due to the increased costs of vaccine, public health clinics are now able to provide publicly purchased vaccine only to those who meet eligibility criteria and don't have insurance coverage.