by Khadn Adderley
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Recent data released from the Arkansas Department of Health showed that a surprising number of kids over the last few years have not been vaccinated.
A 25% jump in vaccination exemptions over the last 5 years show an increase from 6,397 students to 8,016 students in both private and public schools. However, Arkansas State laws say that children must receive vaccines for diseases such as measles, mumps and polio by a certain age or prior to beginning school.
“It is crucial for an individual to get vaccinated because vaccinations are very safe and effective,” says Justice Yuille, UofA student. “Vaccinations can save lives and reduce the risk of future generations obtaining a disease.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Monday 555 cases of measles have been confirmed in the U.S. this year.