Benton County Health Officials Urge Families to Review School Vaccination Rates Ahead of New School Year

CORVALLIS, Ore. — Benton County Health Department is encouraging parents and caregivers to review their school’s vaccination rates and ensure children are up to date on immunizations as concerns grow over declining vaccination coverage and the potential for disease outbreaks.

Health officials say school-specific immunization data is available through the Oregon Health Authority’s School Immunization Data Dashboard, allowing families to better understand vaccination rates and disease risks within their local schools.

According to the county, Oregon is experiencing record numbers of students attending school without some or all required vaccines, a trend that is also evident in Benton County. Public health experts warn that lower vaccination rates increase the likelihood of outbreaks of highly contagious diseases such as measles and pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough.

“When vaccine rates decline, we risk seeing the return of harmful diseases such as measles and polio, which are now largely preventable through vaccination,” said Carolina Amador, M.D., health officer and pediatrician for Benton County Health Services.

Amador noted that while most Benton County families continue to vaccinate their children, current immunization levels remain below the threshold needed to effectively prevent measles outbreaks.

“Schools vary in their vaccination rates, and we encourage families to look at the rates in their schools to better understand person and community risk,” she said.

Health officials also reminded families that Oregon law allows schools and childcare facilities to exclude students who are not fully vaccinated during disease outbreaks. The measure is intended to protect unvaccinated children and help prevent further spread of illness.

The duration of exclusions depends on the disease involved. During a measles outbreak, for example, unvaccinated students may be required to remain home for at least 21 days. Officials say such absences can significantly disrupt education, extracurricular activities, and family schedules.

With summer underway, the Benton County Health Department is urging families to prepare for the upcoming school year by reviewing vaccination records, confirming school immunization requirements, and scheduling appointments for any needed vaccines.

Families can obtain vaccinations through their healthcare provider or the Benton County Public Health Immunization Clinic, located at 530 NW 27th Street in Corvallis. The clinic is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and walk-in appointments are accepted.

“Our Public Health Immunization Clinic is different than a primary care vaccine appointment,” said Luv Paresa, RN, immunization coordinator for Benton County Health Department. “We have longer appointment times so we can help folks update vaccine records.”

Paresa said the clinic assists families who have relocated from other states or countries and helps ensure records are complete and ready for school enrollment.

“We take time to answer any questions or concerns and can accommodate family preferences or alternate schedules,” she said.

The Benton County Health Department said its goal is to protect the health of residents and prevent disease before it occurs, while working to reduce health disparities and promote healthy communities throughout the county.

For additional information about immunizations and school vaccine requirements, residents can contact the Benton County Health Department or visit the county’s immunization resources online.