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CDC Data Shows 0.1% Kindergarten Vaccine Rate Drop, Exemptions Rise

8/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

The CDC released data showing a 0.1% decline in kindergarten vaccination rates and a record high in exemptions.
Dr. Robert Malone, vice chair of the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, told Fox News Digital the drop is insignificant, noting a very low single-digit lack of compliance and linking it to modest vaccine skepticism.
Officials warned that rising exemption rates could spark measles or whooping-cough outbreaks, though vaccination remains protective.

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Story summary

The CDC released data showing a 0.1% decline in kindergarten vaccination rates and a record high in exemptions.
Dr. Robert Malone, vice chair of the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, told Fox News Digital the drop is insignificant, noting a very low single-digit lack of compliance and linking it to modest vaccine skepticism.
Officials warned that rising exemption rates could spark measles or whooping-cough outbreaks, though vaccination remains protective.