SEATTLE — The Washington State Department of Health has observed a significant drop in the number of children being vaccinated over the past two months.

State health experts say children still need vaccines on time, even during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. The health department says about 30% fewer children were vaccinated in March and about 40% fewer in April compared to the average number administered during those months between 2015 and 2019.

State Health Officer Dr. Kathy Lofy says officials are concerned children will not be properly protected against preventable diseases.