Measles vaccination levels of children enrolled in WIC during the 1991 measles epidemic in New York City

This study assessed measles vaccination rates and risk factors for lack of vaccination among preschool children enrolled in the Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) during the 1991 measles epidemic in New York City. Children aged 12 to 59 months presenting for WIC certification between April 1 and September 30, 1991, at six volunteer WIC sites in New York City were surveyed. Of the 6181 children enrolled in the study, measles immunization status was ascertained for 6074 (98%). Overall measles coverage was 86% (95% confidence interval [CI] = +/- 1%) and at least 90% by 21 months of age (95% CI = +/- 1%). Young age of the child, use of a private provider, and Medicaid as a source of health care payment were risk factors for lack of vaccination (P < .001). During the peak of a measles epidemic, measles immunization rates were more than 80% by 24 months of age in a sample of WIC children. The ease of ascertaining immunization status and the size of the total WIC population underscore the importance of WIC immunization initiatives.