Factually! with Adam Conover RFK Jr is Going to Kill Many Children - with Dr. Adam Ratner
Feb 12, 2025
Dr. Adam Ratner, head of pediatric infectious diseases at NYU and author of "Booster Shots," shares crucial insights on vaccine efficacy and the staggering impact of misinformation. He discusses the alarming rise of vaccine skepticism, particularly in light of RFK Jr.'s anti-vaccine stance. The conversation dives into the historical successes of vaccines in preventing diseases and the recent public health challenges highlighted by COVID-19. Ratner also emphasizes the need for compelling communication to restore trust in vaccines and safeguard children's health.
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Vaccines' Impact
- Vaccines are one of humanity's greatest accomplishments, saving countless lives.
- They rank with clean water and sanitation in terms of their impact on human longevity.
Smallpox Eradication
- Smallpox was eradicated worldwide through a global vaccination effort, including ring vaccination.
- Dr. Ratner, born on the cusp of eradication, didn't receive the vaccine himself.
Polio Vaccine Celebration
- The polio vaccine's development was celebrated nationally, marking a shift from fearing polio.
- Polio's effects varied from flu-like symptoms to permanent paralysis and iron lung confinement.
