Wisconsin’s Vaccination Rates Show Decline Among Children in 2025
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) has published its annual report detailing vaccination rates for 2025, revealing a concerning trend among the state’s youngest residents. The data indicates a drop in childhood vaccinations, with only 66.9% of children receiving the recommended immunizations by 24 months—a decrease of nearly 2% compared to the previous year. This means that almost 3 out of every 10 children are missing essential vaccinations.
“In public health, we use data like this as an alert system. Today that alert system is sending a clear signal that the health and well-being of Wisconsin kids and communities are at risk,” stated Paula Tran, state health officer and Division of Public Health administrator. “Vaccination rates aren’t just numbers on a chart, they represent real people—children, families, and neighbors. Even small declines in vaccination rates increase the risk of preventable diseases spreading and outbreaks occurring.”
While childhood vaccination rates have declined, the 2025 data also show slight decreases in adolescent vaccines, such as the human papillomavirus (HPV) and tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) vaccines. In contrast, the vaccination rates for meningococcal disease among adolescents have risen, and adult vaccination rates have remained consistent.
Dr. Ryan Westergaard, Chief Medical Officer and State Epidemiologist for Communicable Diseases, emphasized the importance of timely vaccinations: “Vaccines prepare our immune systems to recognize and respond to serious diseases, and they also protect entire communities. When everyone can access the recommended vaccinations on time, it can stop vaccine preventable diseases from spreading.”
Efforts are underway by the DHS and its network of partners, including health systems, clinics, pharmacies, and public health agencies, to address local needs and enhance partnerships. Stephanie Schauer, manager of the DHS’ Wisconsin Immunization Program, noted, “Families have told us that they are concerned about access to health care, busy schedules, and the many other pressures they face that make it feel difficult to get their kids to checkups. Public health and health care providers across the state are here to help families break down these barriers to keep families safe from vaccine preventable diseases.”
For more detailed information on vaccination rates, visit the DHS websites for children and adolescents and adults.
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