Fall is here and many people are considering getting vaccinated against the most common respiratory illnesses, including influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus.
They are considered one of the most valuable contributions to modern medicine and are extremely safe. According to the World Health Organization, vaccines prevent 4-5 million deaths a year worldwide.
So WalletHub looked at the United States to see where people will be most responsible for getting vaccinated in 2024.
Where does Florida rank?
Out of all 50 states and the District of Columbia, the Sunshine State ranks 46th.
Florida ranks 39th in vaccination rates for children and teens and 49th in vaccination rates for adults and seniors.
Which states have the highest vaccination rates?
Rhode Island leads the state when it comes to HPV vaccination rates, especially among teens ages 13 to 17. Rhode Island ranks second in childhood influenza vaccination rates, with even infants under 3 receiving the 7-dose vaccine series that protects against several common diseases such as polio, tetanus, and hepatitis B. The state requires students to receive key vaccines. Illness before entering kindergarten.
Massachusetts came in second place. Massachusetts is one of the only states that allows minors to be vaccinated without parental consent and requires children to be vaccinated before kindergarten. The state has the highest levels of immunization for all major diseases and seasonal diseases, and the highest percentage of adults who have received the flu vaccine at more than 62%.
Maine ranks third overall in vaccination rates, especially among teens. This is compounded by the fact that Maine allows minors to be vaccinated without parental consent. The study also noted that the state has good access to health care, with an abundance of doctors available to see patients and administer vaccines.
