In 2014, while pregnant with twins and deeply disturbed by a report on a measles outbreak in a California community—an illness largely preventable through vaccination—I felt compelled to express my views on the importance of immunization. I firmly believe that vaccination is not merely a personal decision; it is a collective responsibility. Personal choices, such as whether to breastfeed or what foods to serve, don’t impact the health of entire communities. I’ve always maintained that a reasonable vaccination schedule for children over several years is essential for public health.
The backlash I faced was intense. Critics labeled me as uneducated and intolerant, questioning my right to assert that vaccination is a community obligation. I understood the pushback; many people resist being told what to do, especially regarding medical choices for themselves and their children. Just as I wouldn’t want anyone dictating my choice of contraception or my preferences on body image, I found that many interpreted my plea for informed decision-making based on scientific evidence as an individual mandate.
Opponents often cited the discredited research of Dr. Andrew Wakefield, linking vaccines to autism, despite the overwhelming evidence disproving this claim. Some pointed to vaccine injury cases, sharing statistics that initially seemed alarming. However, a recent article in Time highlighted that, while 2,967 cases were adjudicated, only 1,876 were compensated—compared to the staggering 2.5 billion vaccines administered between 2006 and 2014. This makes the risk of vaccine injury less than one in a million, far safer than the odds of being struck by lightning, which are approximately 1 in 960,000. This perspective is critical.
I wrote my initial essay as a concerned mother, heartbroken by stories of children suffering from preventable diseases. I was frustrated that people would choose to believe a celebrity with no medical expertise over dedicated scientists. Instead of merely expressing anger, I should have directed my readers toward credible sources like the World Health Organization and Voices for Vaccines.
Despite the negativity, my faith in science remains unshaken. I have chosen to vaccinate my four children according to an established schedule. Living in a country where vaccines are mandatory or easily accessible, I do this not out of blind obedience but from a place of informed conviction. I am a mother who has researched the issue thoroughly and made a conscious decision to support the health of my community.
Skeptics often dismissed my opinions because I’m “just a mother” without a medical degree. Ironically, many who oppose vaccination also lack formal medical training. While I do not hold a doctorate or work in the medical field, I am well-educated and have dedicated significant time to understanding the implications of vaccinations. I have seen how vaccines have effectively eradicated numerous contagious diseases worldwide and how communities still suffer from outbreaks due to lack of access to immunizations.
On September 27, 2016, the Pan American Health Organization announced that measles had been eradicated in the Americas, but officials cautioned that the disease could resurface if vaccination rates drop. Recent outbreaks in places like Italy serve as a stark reminder of this threat. This is where herd immunity comes in—when a significant portion of the population is vaccinated, it protects those who cannot be immunized for medical reasons.
Perhaps attitudes are shifting. In recent discussions about my initial article, many parents echoed the sentiment that a scheduled vaccination approach is necessary. One former anti-vaccine parent shared how her perspective changed after her children contracted rotavirus, a preventable illness. Unfortunately, it often takes personal experience with vaccine-preventable diseases for people to reconsider their stance.
After my passionate essay, I was invited to debate a naturopath who opposes vaccinations. I declined. I no longer wish to engage in debates about whether vaccinations are the right choice. For me, the issue is clear: vaccination is not a personal choice but a community responsibility. I refuse to engage in name-calling or judgment against those who disagree. Instead, I hope to encourage others to consider the facts and the broader implications of their choices.
As a mother and advocate for public health, I urge you to vaccinate your children. Protect them and those who cannot be vaccinated due to various reasons. Safeguard your community. Let’s work together to ensure a healthier future for all.
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Summary:
Vaccination is a collective responsibility that extends beyond personal choices. Despite facing criticism for my views, I advocate for informed decision-making based on scientific evidence. Vaccines protect not just individuals but entire communities, and encouraging vaccination can prevent the resurgence of diseases. It’s essential to engage with credible sources and prioritize public health.