Confessions of a Public Health Enthusiast

You are probably thinking, she is one of those people that are fixated on health related issues. Maybe you are right to some extent but I think, it is a healthy and positive fixation. I promise!

Public health is a broad field that can be thrilling and captivating! Whether in developing or developed countries, public health services such as vaccines should always be made available and accessible to the citizens. Vaccinations have generated both positive and negative buzz lately depending on which side of the debate you find yourself. A case in point:  

An anti-vaxx community (anti-vaccination community) has been accused of allegedly keeping their children from being vaccinated and spreading misinformation about vaccinations. For instance, a young man from Ohio (Ethan Lindenberger) recently made headlines for going against the wishes of his anti-vaccine mother by getting vaccinated at 18. He testified in front of the U.S. Congress to warn against the dangers posed by opponents of vaccinations such as his mother. Many might have a problem with Ethan’s approach while others might see him as taking a stance on what he believes in.  It is worth noting that some children from within the anti-vaxx community seem to be breaking from their parents’ ideology, educating themselves and finding their own separate voices regarding the issue.

Vaccines are supposed to improve immunity to certain diseases and are recommended for children and adults.  I cannot deny the fact that ever since vaccinations became a controversial issue, I have been reading about anything that I can get my hands on regarding this issue. Some people might call it an obsession, but the fact remains that I hear and understand both sides of the arguments. Some parents argue against vaccinations for religious reasons, an alleged linkage to autism-which has been scientifically debunked, and distrust in the government. Others believe vaccinations are important to prevent the spread of diseases and avoid the situations like the current measles outbreaks in cities across the U.S. and Canada.

As a mother, I do strongly believe in vaccination, so I make sure my family is up to date on seasonal and scheduled vaccines. Does that mean that mothers that do not vaccinate their kids are not good parents? NO! I guess the point is that, I am just curious to learn why the number of unvaccinated children in the U.S. has increased in the last few years (Centers for Disease Control).  For those who are proponents of vaccines, note that, it is highly important to respect people’s opinions and choices while politely making them see the long term benefits of vaccines.

Importantly, whichever side of the argument you find yourself, it is important and recommended to weigh the pros and cons of vaccinations carefully i.e. do your own research, do not rely on the media and third party (misinformation most times), and ask questions before making this important decision. Remember, when it comes to parenting, one size does not always fit all!

Top 5 Reasons to vaccinate

• Immunizations can save your child’s life
• Vaccination is very safe and effective
• Immunization protects others you care about
• Immunizations can save your family time and money
• Immunization protects future generations

          (Source: US. Department of Health and Human Services)

Some reasons against vaccinations

• Religious reasons
• Vaccines allegedly cause autism –has been scientifically debunked
• Infant immune systems can’t handle so many vaccines
• Vaccines contain unsafe toxins

     (Source: publichealth.org)

Some facts on vaccinations

• Immunization through vaccination is the safest way to protect against disease.
• It is always best to get vaccinated, even when you think the risk of infection is low.
• Combined vaccines are safe and beneficial.
• There is no link between vaccines and autism.
• If we stop vaccination, deadly diseases will return. (Source: World Health Organization)