As nearly 150 cases of measles are reported in the South Plains area, parents across the state are growing increasingly concerned. In light of this outbreak, we examined vaccination rates in Plano schools.
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) publishes an annual report on immunization rates for kindergarten and seventh-grade students. The CDC recommends that children receive two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine—one between 12 to 15 months of age and another at 4 to 6 years old.
However, those who are unvaccinated can receive the vaccine at any age, and the DSHS encourages individuals who may have been exposed to the virus to get vaccinated. According to the Mayo Clinic, 93% of individuals who receive one dose of the MMR vaccine develop immunity, while 97% of those who get both doses achieve immunity.
Vaccination rates in Plano’s private schools show a range of statistics, with most schools reporting higher vaccination rates for seventh graders than for kindergarteners.
Vaccination Rates in Plano Private Schools
| School | Kindergarten (%) | Seventh Grade (%) | Conscience Exemptions (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coram Deo Academy of Collin County | 9.57% | 89.13% | – |
| Faith Lutheran School Plano | 72.73% | 64.29% | 21.57% |
| Good Tree Academy | 85.71% | 96.43% | – |
| Lone Star Language Academy | 89.39% | – | – |
| Plano ISD | 95.51% | 97.14% | 2.95% |
| Prestonwood Christian Academy | 81.58% | 91.46% | – |
| Primrose Schools | 100% | – | – |
| Prince of Peace Catholic School | 100% | 100% | 0% |
| St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic School | 97.30% | 100% | – |
| Bethany Christian School | 57.14% | – | – |
| Faith Lutheran School | 72.73% | – | – |
| Great Lakes Academy | – | 100% | – |
| Spring Creek Academy | – | 88.89% | – |
| Einstein School | – | 80.65% | 6.38% |
Conscience Exemptions on the Rise
The State of Texas allows parents to opt-out of the MMR vaccine for their children by filing a Conscience Exemption. In Collin County, these exemptions have increased from 2.92% to 5.81% among kindergarteners.
While vaccination rates in Plano are higher than in surrounding districts, the highly contagious nature of measles remains a concern. According to the CDC, 9 out of 10 susceptible individuals (those unvaccinated or immuno-suppressed) will contract the virus if exposed. Additionally, measles can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, blindness, brain swelling, and even death.
Herd Immunity and the Risk of Measles Transmission
Research from NPR highlights the impact of vaccination rates on the spread of measles. If a non-vaccinated person contracts measles, they could infect 12 to 18 others. In a population where 67% are vaccinated, one infected person is likely to spread the virus to 5 others. However, in a population where 95% are vaccinated, fewer than one person is likely to be infected, according to data from Matthew Ferrari of the Center for Infectious Disease Dynamics at Pennsylvania State University.
Measles transmission thrives in communities with pockets of low vaccination coverage, particularly in areas with high population density and close social networks, such as those that travel frequently. This can happen even if surrounding communities have achieved “herd immunity.”
The Misinformation Problem
Misinformation about vaccines continues to fuel misconceptions about their safety. Myths suggesting a link between the MMR vaccine and autism, as well as concerns about vaccine efficacy and safety, persist. It is important to note that there is no scientific evidence linking the MMR vaccine to autism, and the vaccine has not caused any deaths in healthy individuals. Children with compromised immune systems are not recommended to receive the vaccine. Statistically, the MMR vaccine is much safer than contracting measles.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Measles
Measles symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, small red spots with blue-white centers in the mouth, and a characteristic rash. Symptoms typically appear 7-14 days after exposure.
If you believe you or your child have been exposed to measles or are showing symptoms, contact your healthcare provider for guidance on the next steps.
