With cold and flu season nearing, Texas ranks among least vaccinated states. Here’s why
With cold and flu season upon us, it’s important to stay healthy. Apparently, people in Texas do not rely on vaccines to do so.
A recent WalletHub study indicated that Texas ranks No. 47 among the 50 states and the District of Columbia in a ranking of states with the most vaccinations. WalletHub determined the rankings based on children’s and teenagers’ immunization rates, adult and elderly vaccination rates, and immunization uptake disparities.
This is no surprise regarding Texas’ policymaking in the most recent pandemic. Earlier this year, a ban was placed on health departments and doctor’s offices for promoting COVID-19 vaccinations, The Star-Telegram previously reported.
According to the Centers for Disease Control vaccine coverage map most recent available data, 6.5% of Texas adults have been administered at least one dose.
Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Maine are the top three states, respectively, with the most immunizations (not just COVID shots),according to WalletHub metrics. Massachusetts is one of 18 states that allow minors to become vaccinated without parental consent.
Texas ranks low because of our low vaccination numbers. WalletHub suggests ways that authorities can help debunk the anti-vaccination trend.
Why Texas is ranked low
WalletHub expert Paul Carson says it is vital for the government and health department to maintain trust with the general public in order to promote vaccinations.
“We value autonomy, especially when it comes to making decisions about my own health and what goes into my body,” says Carson, “This should start with educating parents and children early and often about vaccines and the diseases they prevent.”
According to Texas Health and Human Services, only 57% of children were vaccinated for the flu in the 2022 through 2023 season. Adults were even less at 38.6%.
WalletHub also ranks Texas last (No. 51) for immunization uptake in its disparities and influencing factors ranking. For adults and elderly vaccinations, the state ranks No. 37. And for children and teenager immunizations, we rank No. 44.