Colorado and Utah share many of the same challenges to ensuring its children are vaccinated, reports the Denver Post. Both states allow medical, religious and philosophical opt-outs and between 4 and 5 percent of parents exercise those rights in each state. But Utah is near the top of vaccination rates and Colorado is at the bottom. According to the Denver Post, here's why:
- Utah doesn't allow children who don't show vaccination records or exemptions to come to school.
- Utah's health department is collaborating with schools and health departments to increase access to children by adding provider sites.
- It's possible that the cultural influence of the Mormon Church enhances compliance with regulations.
