Is Oklahoma the weak link? The decline in vaccine coverage levels in Oklahoma

Oklahoma has demonstrated a decline in vaccine coverage levels in children over the past two years, moving from a national ranking of 31st in 2000 to 48th in 2002. This decline has prompted a review of available evidence to identify approaches to move the state toward national averages and ultimately to the Healthy People 2010 Objectives. Oklahoma is one of nine states that are well below the established goal of 80% vaccine coverage for children. Oklahoma is near the bottom of this group with an estimated level of only 65%, placing not only Oklahomans at risk but the nation as well. The following is a plan aimed at both the health department and all health care professionals. Indeed, without physician involvement, the situation will not improve.