Immunizations protect more than just the individual they are given to. If vaccination levels for a community are high then those unvaccinated in the community will have increased protection against those diseases. Likewise, if children are not vaccinated and are exposed to an infectious disease, they are at risk for contracting that disease and any member of the community they come into contact with would be exposed as well.
Groups most affected by under-immunization are those children living in "pockets of Need" or "underserved communities". NIIW is designed to raise awareness of the need to reach these special populations about the importance of timely immunizations.
Explanations for under-immunization include:
Lack of public awareness for the need to start vaccination series at birth (if vaccinations are started after 3 months of age, the child is 1/3 less likely to complete them).
Poor upkeep of a child's immunization record can cause confusion as to which vaccines the child needs and when the child needs the vaccines. Additionally, as new vaccine combinations are approved, parents/caregivers and providers can become confused as to which vaccine the child needs.
Parents not having a primary care physician for their child.
A full series of the recommended vaccinations require multiple visits to a doctor or clinic; often, there is not a reminder system in place for parents or caregivers.
Lack of or insufficient healthcare available.
Lack of or insufficient health insurance to cover costs of immunizations.
Some providers are misinformed about giving more than 2 vaccinations per visit.
Lack of culturally appropriate patient-education immunization materials.
Need for clinics to implement reminder/recall, reduce wait times and provide patient-friendly services.
Parental barriers such as transportation, multiple children, and other family-related dynamics that make it difficult to seek immunization services.