Federal data shows a decline in kindergarten vaccination rates nationwide. The number of children exempt from vaccine requirements has increased. This rise is largely attributed to parents opting out for nonmedical reasons.

Experts suggest that actions by federal health officials may have contributed to this trend. The exemption rate has reached a record high for the fourth year in a row.

Further information on this topic can be found through national news sources, including details on the estimated number of children affected and the states where exemptions have increased.