Osterholm Update Episode 189: Are We at Risk of Losing Our Vaccines?
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Aug 7, 2025 Declining childhood vaccination rates are raising alarm, alongside the impact of non-medical exemptions. There's also discussion about the termination of significant mRNA vaccine research funding and the potential risks to ongoing health initiatives. Recent COVID-19 data highlights trends in rising cases, particularly in certain regions. Confusion about vaccine availability and eligibility is addressed, emphasizing the importance of effective community support and transparency in public health.
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Declining Vaccine Coverage Risks
- A decline in MMR vaccine rates, now at 92.5%, is below herd immunity thresholds needed to prevent outbreaks.
- Pockets of extremely low vaccination create hotspots for measles outbreaks, threatening public health.
End Non-Medical Exemptions
- Eliminate non-medical vaccine exemptions to strengthen school vaccine mandates.
- Combine mandates with education, enforcement, and clinic access to improve vaccination coverage.
Science Empowers Vaccine Recommendations
- CIDRAP's Vaccine Integrity Project rigorously reviews data on COVID, RSV, and flu vaccines to aid medical societies' decisions.
- Their work exemplifies scientific collaboration under tight deadlines, supporting upcoming vaccine recommendations.
