Utah Immunization Program

Personal Exemption Survey Results

Fall 2012
The Personal Exemption Survey was conducted during the fall 2012. Parents claiming a personal
exemption for their childs immunizations were asked to fill out the survey. The purpose of the
survey was to explore the reasons why individuals claim personal or philosophical exemption to
immunizations. The results of the survey will be used in educating health care providers, parents
and the general public about the importance of immunizations.
The total number of personal exemptions claimed in the state for fall 2012 was 398. The following
analysis is based on the 398 surveys received from 7 of the12 local health departments (Salt
Lake Valley HD, Southeastern HD, Summit County HD, Tooele County HD, Utah County HD,
Wasatch County HD, Weber-Morgan HD).
Demographic Information

Do you have access to the Internet?

The majority of parents (97.1%) indicated
they have access to the Internet.

What is your reason for claiming a

personal/philosophical exemption for
your child? (Check all that apply)
Responses for this question include the
following in the same order as the graph:
1. My child has had a serious reaction to a vaccine in the past.
2. Immunization requirements conflict with my
philosophical beliefs.
3. I heard that vaccines could cause chronic
diseases.
4. Immunizations cost too much money.
5. I do not have health insurance.
6. I do not have access to immunization clinics.
7. A dose of vaccine given previously was given
too early.
8. I am exempting my child from one vaccine.
9. I lost the immunization record.

Do you use the Internet to obtain information on immunizations?

Almost three quarter (72.0%) of parents who
use the Internet said they use it to obtain information on immunizations.

Do you have specific concerns about

the safety of vaccines?

Which vaccine(s) are you exempting

for your Child(s)?

Surveys by
Local Health Department
Health District
Salt Lake Valley

%
173

43.5%

Southeastern

12

3.0%

Summit County

55

13.8%

Tooele County

32

8.0%

Utah County

67

16.8%

Wasatch County

13

3.3%

Weber-Morgan

46

11.6%

398

100%

State Total