NYC Launches Childhood Vaccination Data Explorer to Address Gaps in Coverage

By Y.M. Lowy

The New York City Health Department has launched a new online tool to give New Yorkers a clearer picture of childhood vaccination rates across the city. The NYC Childhood Vaccination Data Explorer shows what percentage of children are vaccinated for key recommended vaccines, with breakdowns by borough, ZIP code, race, and ethnicity.

As of the end of 2024, only 65 percent of 2-year-olds in the city had received all seven recommended early childhood vaccines by their second birthday. These include vaccines for deadly diseases like measles, polio, hepatitis B, chickenpox, and pneumonia.

Health officials warn that low vaccination coverage can leave entire communities at risk, especially babies too young to be vaccinated and people with weakened immune systems. The Health Department encourages parents to speak with their child’s doctor to make sure their child is up to date on all vaccines.

The city is using this data to focus outreach and education in neighborhoods with lower coverage. Differences in vaccination rates by ZIP code and ethnicity show that more work is needed to make sure all children have equal protection from preventable diseases.