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When adults reject vaccines, children pay the price
Apr 14, 2025
Maria Godoy, NPR's senior science and health editor, and Brandy Zadrozny, NBC News senior reporter, tackle the alarming resurgence of measles due to anti-vaccine rhetoric. They discuss the devastating consequences of vaccine hesitancy, illustrated by a recent outbreak in Texas. The duo delves into the influence of misinformation, examining parental fears linked to autism and alternative medicine. Their insights highlight the urgent need for accurate information to safeguard public health and combat the growing anti-vaccine sentiment.
19:40
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Quick takeaways
- The resurgence of measles in the U.S. underscores the critical impact of vaccine hesitancy fueled by misinformation amongst parents.
- Addressing logistical barriers to vaccination access is essential for improving immunization rates and effectively preventing future outbreaks.
Deep dives
The Measles Outbreak and Vaccine Hesitancy
The resurgence of measles in the U.S. highlights significant gaps in the public health system and vaccine hesitancy among parents. In Texas, a measles outbreak has occurred despite the availability of vaccines, with vaccination rates in some areas falling below the 95% threshold required for herd immunity. Public health officials are struggling to combat misinformation surrounding vaccines, which contributes to low uptake, as many parents remain skeptical despite the risks associated with outbreaks. Strategies such as harm reduction communications are being adopted, as traditional calls for vaccination are proving ineffective.
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