As several measles outbreaks in the U.S. in recent years so vividly show us, vaccine-preventable diseases can be a threat to our health. APHA promotes immunization of the world's children as well as throughout the lifespan.
Do vaccines work? Think about it: In the decade before 1963 when a vaccine became available, nearly all children got measles by the time they were 15. Up to 4 million people in the United States were infected each year, 400-500 people died, 48,000 were hospitalized, and 4,000 suffered encephalitis, or swelling of the brain. Now, two doses of measles vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles if someone is exposed to the virus. Vaccines work!
In today’s climate, vaccines face unwarranted attacks: the Trump administration and RFK Jr. are pulling COVID funding, laying off federal experts, and spreading misinformation, even as measles outbreaks remind us of their critical importance.
Knowledge is power—stay informed to protect public health. Explore our new factsheets on Vaccine Policies, Vaccine Safety, and Childhood Immunizations—available in English and Spanish. For a deeper dive into these issues, watch our recent town hall.
From The Nation's Health:
APHA advocacy:
From APHA's Public Health Newswire:
Read the letter to President Trump (PDF) from national and state health organizations (including APHA) expressing unequivocal support for the safety of vaccines.
One way to counter misinformation about childhood vaccines: train parents to be immunization advocates.
More vaccine-related resources
Top photo by Heather Hazzan, SELF Magazine. Find more great free use vaccination images online.
Why don't people get vaccinated? Hear what Elmo and U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy have to say about that....
Did you know....you have a 1 in 12,000 chance of getting hit by lightning, but only a 1 in 1,000,000 chance of having a reaction to a vaccine? Find out more in this infographic from the producers of the film "Vaccines — Calling the Shots."
