U.S. childhood vaccination coverage continued to decline during the 2025–26 school year, while exemptions from required vaccines reached a record high, according to data summarized in a new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report.
MMR coverage among kindergartners slipped from 92.5% in 2024–25 to 92.4% in 2025–26, remaining below the 95% level generally associated with community protection against measles. Coverage for diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis vaccines fell to 92.0%. The CDC estimated that about 280,000 kindergartners attended school without documentation showing completion of the MMR series.
Exemptions from at least one school-required vaccine rose from 3.6% to 4.2%, affecting approximately 155,000 children. Rates increased in 41 states and the District of Columbia, with 24 states reporting exemption levels above 5%. Exemptions may be medical, religious, or philosophical, depending on state law.
The figures coincide with a measles resurgence. As of August 13, the CDC had confirmed 2,566 cases in 2026, the highest national total in 35 years. More than 94% were linked to outbreaks, and over half involved people age 19 or younger. Local clusters can sustain transmission.
President Donald Trump’s executive order proposes separating the MMR vaccine into three shots and limiting some childhood vaccines. The administration says the approach would expand parental choice. States retain authority over school vaccination rules, and the order has not changed the federal schedule. The American Academy of Pediatrics opposes the proposal.
The CDC continues to recommend two MMR doses, typically at 12–15 months and 4–6 years. The agency reports that two doses are about 97% effective against measles, compared with about 93% for one dose. Public health experts emphasize that vaccination also protects infants, immunocompromised people, and others unable to receive vaccines. Families with children who are behind on vaccinations are advised to consult their pediatricians about recommended next steps.
