CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) - As the peak of respiratory virus season approaches, concerns are mounting over the low vaccination rates in the region's schools.

"In Western Mass., dozens of schools have immunization rates that hover around 70% and we know that we need at least 95% vaccinated," said Dr. Everett Lamm, co-chair of the Immunization Initiative, MCAAP.

Dr. Everett Lamm supports House Bill 2554 and Senate Bill 1557, which aim to remove religious exemptions for vaccinations. If passed, these bills would require students to be vaccinated to attend school, with only medical exemptions allowed.

Officials and families emphasize the need for higher immunization rates to prevent the spread of preventable diseases.

Kathryn Alcaide, who lost her son to whooping cough, has been a vocal advoc

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