Child vaccination rates are falling fast, with some regions barely reaching 80%
Medical Xpress
February 21, 2026
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Australia's child vaccination rates have seen a significant decline, particularly since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Regions that once proudly achieved national targets, such as the 95% vaccination rate for one-year-olds, now struggle to reach just 80%. This drop is alarming, as high vaccination rates are crucial for maintaining herd immunity and preventing the resurgence of preventable diseases.
Before the pandemic, Australia was a leader in child immunization, with robust programs contributing to this success. Factors like widespread public trust in vaccines and effective health campaigns played pivotal roles. However, the challenges posed by COVID-19 shifted focus, leading to delays in routine vaccinations as healthcare systems prioritized pandemic response.
The decline is multifaceted. The shift in healthcare priorities during the pandemic, along with misinformation spreading on vaccine safety, has deterred some parents. Additionally, access barriers and an overwhelmed healthcare system have compounded the issue, making it harder for families to secure timely immunizations.
Maintaining high vaccination rates is vital for public
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Originally published on Medical Xpress on 2/21/2026