As families prepare for the first day of school, the checklist often includes shopping for supplies, getting fresh haircuts, and, for some, making sure kids’ vaccinations are up to date.

However, pediatrician Dr. Candace Jones says she has noticed a gradual decline in immunization rates over the years.

“Probably on a weekly basis, a family has decided to not vaccinate their newborn or stop vaccinating their children who were once getting vaccinated,” Jones said.

While most parents are still keeping their kids on schedule, Jones says more families are showing hesitancy.

“There’s a lot of misinformation and disinformation out there. Social media,” she said.

According to the latest data from Florida Health Charts, kindergarten immunization rates this year are:

Volusia County: 88.6%

Fla

See Full Page