Catherine Wells

Catherine Wells, Director of Lubbock Public Health, teams up with Peter Hotez, a pediatrician-scientist, Michael Phillips, a historian of race and politics, and David Gorski, a surgeon and writer. Together, they tackle the alarming resurgence of vaccine hesitancy, linked to misinformation and political trends. They dissect the historical roots of anti-vaccination sentiments, explore the impact of community distrust, and highlight the intertwined relationship between faith and vaccine resistance. The urgent call for public health advocacy rings clear throughout the discussion.

Catherine Wells, Director for Lubbock Public Health, discusses the alarming resurgence of measles linked to declining vaccination rates in Texas. Garrison Davis, a political writer, explores the anti-vax movement's roots and its dangerous impact on public health. Dr. Peter Hotez, a pediatrician scientist, critiques misinformation surrounding vaccines, while Dr. David Gorski highlights ethical concerns in vaccine hesitancy. Together, they emphasize the need for trust in local health initiatives to combat skepticism and protect community health.

Catherine Wells, Director for Lubbock Public Health, shares critical insights on a devastating measles outbreak in Texas that has resulted in multiple fatalities. She discusses how vaccine hesitancy, fueled by misinformation, has led to a resurgence of this preventable disease. Wells highlights challenges faced by health officials in combating misinformation and the mixed community reactions to vaccination efforts. The podcast delves into the tragic consequences of this outbreak and the urgent need for public health initiatives to address declining vaccination rates.