MANCHESTER, Maine (AP) Pediatricians in Maine are reminding parents to get their children caught up on routine immunizations, which many students have missed during the coronavirus pandemic.

The Maine Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics said Thursday a Blue Cross Blue Shield analysis found a 26% drop in vaccine doses last year. The analysis also found that 40% of parents surveyed said their children missed shots because of the pandemic.

The chapter called on parents to get in touch with their pediatricians to schedule visits to keep their children up to date.

Data indicates adolescents in Maine are behind on vaccines for certain cancers, pertussis and meningitis, the organization said in a statement.

The chapter said parents have delayed or skipped vaccination appointments because of fear of catching the coronavirus, economic hardship and greater demands on their time and attention.

Immunizations are required to attend school in Maine, and a new law goes into effect this year that takes away philosophical and religious exemptions.