Vaccination rates among young children have decreased, with a growing number of exemptions. Experts note that this trend is partly due to parental decisions, often for nonmedical reasons. The increase in exemptions is a concern, with 41 states and the District of Columbia reporting rises.

Federal data shows a significant rise in the number of children exempt from vaccine requirements, with an estimated 155,000 children affected. This represents a record high, with the exemption rate reaching 4.2%.

Further information on this trend and its implications can be found through additional reporting on the topic.