Despite the higher risk that the coronavirus poses to older adults, a surprisingly low share of nursing home staff and residents are up to date with their COVID-19 vaccinations, according to data collected by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The CDC's weekly data, collected since May 30, 2022, from approximately 15,000 long-term care facilities, reveals that only six states have indicated that over 10% of staff members are updated on their vaccines. Overall, only three states have more than 50% of residents with a fully updated vaccination status.

The states with the lowest share of health care personnel with up-to-date vaccinations are Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, Mississippi, South Carolina, and West Virginia, all of which have only 2% compliance. Additionally, Georgia, Indiana, Washington, Ohio, and Nebraska have 3% of nursing home personnel with fully up-to-date vaccinations.

The states that exceeded 10% vaccination rates for health care workers were New Mexico (19%), Alaska (13%), Vermont (13%), Hawaii (11%), Rhode Island (11%), and New Jersey (11%). On the other hand, the states with the lowest share of fully vaccinated residents included South Carolina (18%), Alabama (16%), Texas (15%), Arkansas (12%), and Arizona (10%). However, some states like South Dakota (57%), North Dakota (55%), Vermont (55%), New Hampshire (47%), and Alaska (46%) showed higher rates of up-to-date resident vaccinations.

The concerning trend of subpar vaccination rates among nursing home staff and residents has raised alarms among medical experts. Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center and a Fox News medical contributor, emphasized the vulnerability of nursing home patients to serious COVID-19 infections and the importance of decreasing viral load through vaccinations. Dr. Sarah Park, medical director of medical affairs at Karius, echoed the concerns and cited the increased risk faced by immunocompromised nursing home residents.

Multiple factors contribute to low vaccination rates among nursing home staff. Dr. Park highlighted skepticism, concerns over vaccine safety, potential side effects, and a belief in natural immunity as reasons for their hesitancy. Geographical trends influenced by political leanings and cultural attitudes, along with access issues due to economic barriers and limited health care infrastructure, also play a significant role.

Experts agree that effective communication and education are essential to address vaccine hesitancy among nursing home staff. They recommend debunking myths, providing impactful communication that addresses concerns and highlights the urgency of vaccination, and ensuring easy access to vaccines through on-site clinics, flexible scheduling, and mobile units.

In light of the data and expert opinions, it is clear that efforts must be intensified to increase vaccination rates among nursing home staff and residents. Protecting this vulnerable population is vital in mitigating the risks associated with COVID-19. The CDC's recommendation for everyone 5 years of age and older to get one dose of an updated COVID vaccine to protect against serious illness from the virus remains critically important.

Fox News Digital reached out to the CDC for additional comment on this concerning issue.