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Dr. Casey

How Vaccines Keep Us Safe from Everyday Germs

Many consider vaccines to be one of the greatest achievements in medicine. Many even consider vaccines to be one of the most important inventions in all of human history. Vaccines (which are also called vaccinations or immunizations) save millions of lives every year by helping a person’s body learn how to protect itself from certain diseases.

What do vaccines protect against?

Vaccines help protect against illnesses called infectious diseases. Infectious diseases are caused by germs like bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi. These are germs we are exposed to almost every day in some way. But sometimes these germs can get into your body, multiply, and cause an infection. There are many different kinds of infectious diseases, and some of them are very common. You have probably heard of many of them and you might have even been sick with an infectious disease at some time in your life. Some examples of infectious diseases that many people have heard of are chickenpox, flu (which is short for influenza), hepatitis, measles, meningitis, and polio. These are just some examples of the many types of infectious diseases out there.

While we cannot avoid all the germs that can cause these diseases, there are things we can do to lower the chances of getting sick. One of the most important things we can do is to get vaccinated when possible. There are many safe and effective vaccines that can help protect us from different diseases. Vaccines help train your immune system to work faster and give better protection from some serious diseases.

What is the immune system?

The immune system is a complex system in your body made of organs, tissues, and cells that helps protect you from harmful germs. The main job of the immune system is to keep you healthy. When germs like bacteria and viruses get into your body and cause an infection, your immune system fights the infection and the germs that caused it. Vaccines work with your immune system to make your protection from a disease even stronger.

How do vaccines work?

Vaccines help teach your immune system how to recognize and fight germs that can cause infections. Different vaccines help protect from different diseases, and many of these are serious diseases. For example, a chickenpox vaccine teaches your body to identify and fight germs that can cause chickenpox. With the help of a vaccine, your immune system can fight an infection better and faster.

Many vaccines have a very small amount of weak or dead germs for the diseases they prevent. So when you get a vaccine, your immune system thinks a bad germ has gotten into your body. The germs from the vaccine won’t make you sick, but they will make your kick your immune system into action. Your immune system will help to fight off the germ and will remember it, so if that type of germ ever enters your body again, your immune system will know to attack it. That’s right; you can be protected from a serious disease without having to get sick!

Even if a vaccine does not totally prevent a disease, it lowers the chances of the illness being as serious, which means a faster and easier recovery. It also lowers the chances of spreading the illness to others. Vaccines protect you and the people around you. Since they were invented, the number of adults, children, and babies who get sick or die from diseases that can be prevented by vaccines has gone down incredibly. Some diseases have even been eliminated thanks to vaccines!

But as long as there are germs and diseases, people will get sick. No matter how careful we are, there are many things we can’t control. That’s why it’s so important to take whatever actions we can to keep ourselves and the people around us healthy. One of the easiest things we can do with a huge impact on protecting health is getting vaccinated.

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About Dr. Casey

Dr. Casey, PhD, MPH, is Director of Epidemiology and Public Health and associate professor of family medicine at the University of South Alabama Whiddon College of Medicine with a concurrent appointment in USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute’s Division of Cancer Control and Prevention; she is also Director of the Masters of Public Health Program at Spring Hill College. Dr. Casey holds a masters and doctoral degrees in Public Health from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and a postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

Her research interests include behavioral epidemiology, childhood/adolescent vaccination, cancer prevention, health communication, and reducing health disparities, emphasizing rural settings. Dr. Casey is a staunch advocate for increasing vaccination to lower rates of preventable diseases; she has led several studies to improve vaccine uptake.

Dr. Casey has held top leadership roles with non-profit organizations such as VAX2STOP CANCER, was elected Chair of Alabama’s Cancer Control Coalition, and is on the executive committee of Alabama’s vaccination task force. She is active in many prominent organizations, including the American Public Health Association and Society of Behavioral Medicine. With over 50 scientific publications and numerous national presentations and invited talks, Dr. Casey is a widely respected expert in the field of vaccination.

Vaccinations: The Superheroes of Childhood Development

Vaccinations are often hailed as one of the greatest medical achievements of modern civilization. They protect against life-threatening diseases and pave the way for children to grow into healthy, thriving adults. This blog delves into the multifaceted benefits of vaccinations on childhood development, highlighting their role beyond merely preventing illness.

Building a Foundation for Healthy Growth

The primary role of vaccinations is to safeguard children from various infectious diseases, ranging from measles and mumps to whooping cough and influenza. By preventing these illnesses, vaccines lay the groundwork for children to enjoy a healthier childhood. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers a comprehensive list of diseases preventable by childhood vaccinations, emphasizing the critical role these vaccines play in early life health.

Supporting Educational Success

Frequent illnesses can lead to missed school days, hindering a child’s learning and social development. Vaccinations reduce the incidence of vaccine-preventable diseases, thereby minimizing absences from school. A study published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases highlights the correlation between vaccination and reduced absenteeism in educational settings. Children vaccinated according to the recommended schedule are more likely to attend school regularly, participating fully in academic and extracurricular activities crucial for cognitive and social growth.

Enhancing Social Interaction

Social interaction is vital to children’s emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills. Illnesses can isolate children, preventing them from engaging in play and interaction with their peers. Vaccinations enable children to participate in group activities without the constant threat of catching or spreading infectious diseases. The American Academy of Pediatrics underscores the importance of vaccinations in ensuring that children can safely engage in social activities essential for their emotional and psychological well-being.

Economic Impact on Families

The economic burden of managing vaccine-preventable diseases can be significant for families. Vaccinations help reduce medical costs by preventing illnesses that require hospitalization and long-term care. The World Health Organization (WHO) discusses the economic benefits of immunization, highlighting how vaccines reduce healthcare expenses, thus easing financial pressures on families and allowing for better resource allocation towards education and development.

Vaccinations are indeed the unsung heroes of childhood development. They shield against various diseases while supporting children’s overall growth and well-being. By fostering a healthier, more inclusive environment for learning and social interaction, vaccinations contribute significantly to the foundation upon which children can build their futures. As parents and guardians, ensuring that our children receive their vaccinations on schedule is one of the most effective ways to give them a leg up.

In an era when misinformation about vaccines can be prevalent, it’s crucial to rely on credible sources and healthcare professionals for guidance. Vaccinations have been and continue to be a cornerstone of public health, safeguarding not just individual children but entire communities and enabling the next generation to grow healthier, smarter, and stronger.

Sources:

CDC: www.cdc.gov/vaccines

APP: https://www.aap.org/

WHO: https://www.who.int/

How Childhood Vaccination is Helping to Achieve Health Equity

Between 2009 and 2014, the United States saw the percentage of children aged 19 to 35 months who received the combined seven-vaccine series increase from 44.3% to 71.6%.

Everyone should be given the same chance to achieve and maintain the highest level of health. However, some disparities exist among different demographics. Status, race, ethnicity, gender, age, and disability significantly influence health outcomes. This can lead to marginalized groups being overlooked or underserved. Health professionals deal with this issue by bridging the gap with vaccinations, especially in children.

According to the National Institute for Children’s Health Quality, between 2009 and 2014, the United States saw the percentage of children aged 19 to 35 months who received the combined seven-vaccine series increase from 44.3% to 71.6%. The study found that this increase was not confined to specific demographics but cut across income levels, ethnicities, and geographical regions.

One key takeaway from this data is the power of targeted interventions and proactive outreach. Recognizing the diverse needs of different communities, healthcare professionals have implemented different strategies to engage families and address vaccination concerns. Culturally sensitive approaches, language access programs, and community partnerships have played an essential role in creating trust and enhancing vaccine uptake among historically underserved populations.

Vaccination has been and will always be a cornerstone of public health, especially in children, as it prevents the spread of infectious diseases, protects vulnerable populations, and ultimately saves lives. The significance of childhood vaccination cannot be overstated. Childhood vaccination is not only about safeguarding individual children; it’s also about promoting the health and well-being of entire communities. It’s a vital tool in our collective efforts to ensure that every child, no matter their demographic, has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.

Even though vaccinations are important Health equity extends beyond that and encompasses a comprehensive approach that addresses various factors influencing health outcomes. This includes equitable access to healthcare services, nutritious food, clean water, safe housing, education, and economic opportunities. By finding ways to help those experiencing social determinants of health, such as poverty, discrimination, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure, we can create an environment where not only children but everyone has a chance to be happy and healthy.

Achieving health equity is not a one-time achievement but an ongoing commitment that requires everyone’s sustained effort, collaboration, and dedication. By promoting equitable access to healthcare for all individuals, we can create a future where everyone has the opportunity to attain their highest level of health and well-being. Health equity is not just a goal that needs to be achieved; it’s a fundamental human right that must be upheld for everyone.

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Sources:

National Institute for Children’s Health Quality: What Health Equity Efforts Can Learn from Immunization Initiatives

World Health Organization: Health equity

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: What is Health Equity?

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Childhood Immunization as a Tool to Address Health Disparities

Embrace the New Year By Prioritizing the Health and Well-being of Our Children

It’s time to celebrate the arrival of another new year! As 2023 comes to an end, 2024 brings new starts and ambitions. Many people will kick start the new year with a resolution, with most choosing to prioritize their families’ health and well-being. But you don’t need to wait until midnight to focus on healthier choices. With the influenza season in full swing, one of the most effective ways to ensure your family remains free of illness is through vaccination.

Keeping up with vaccinations has been essential in preventing and controlling infectious diseases for decades. They are a cornerstone of public health efforts, contributing to the overall well-being of communities.

Unfortunately, according to the CDC, flu vaccination coverage for all children six months to 17 years of age is 3.6 percentage points lower than last season (43.3% compared with 46.9%). For pregnant women aged 18 to 49, Overall coverage at the end of November 2023 (33.8%) is 2.2 percentage points lower compared with coverage at the end of November 2022 (36.0%).

This lower coverage leaves children vulnerable and susceptible to risks from seasonal flu and its potentially serious complications. As we enter the new year, ensure that your children are up-to-date on their vaccinations so you can avoid serious outcomes, including pneumonia.

It’s easy to stay up-to-date with your child’s vaccinations. All you have to do is consult a healthcare provider who will offer guidance on when children should receive specific vaccines. Health Hero Tennessee partners with organizations to establish community clinics and create tailored onsite clinic immunization programs that can scale according to needs.

Discussing vaccination with a healthcare provider can also help alleviate any hesitancy. Parents and caregivers need to seek information from reliable sources and engage in open conversations with healthcare professionals. Dispelling myths and addressing concerns can contribute to a better understanding of the importance of vaccinations in safeguarding children’s health.

Vaccinations not only protect those who received a shot but also create a barrier that contributes to community immunity. By achieving high vaccination rates, we create a barrier that limits the spread of infectious diseases, protecting those unable to receive vaccines due to age or medical reasons.

The science of vaccine development continues to evolve, with ongoing research aimed at improving and developing new vaccines. Since the 1980s, vaccinations have prevented about 2.5 million deaths per year in the United States, according to Statista. This study also shows that vaccines have significantly reduced the rate of child mortality. They are also responsible for helping to eradicate diseases like Polio and smallpox. Pertussis no longer kills one out of every 100 infants hospitalized with whooping cough. Finally, the Haemophilus Influenza B vaccine has successfully prevented the infection, harm, or incapacitation of over 10,000 children annually. Staying informed about the advancement in vaccines allows parents and caregivers to make informed decisions about their children’s health.

As 2023 ends and we embark on the journey of improving our health and well-being into 2024, it’s important to prioritize the health and safety of our children. Vaccinations can help achieve your health goals by providing a fighting chance against preventable diseases. Building your child’s immunity will extend beyond individual protection and create a barrier for entire communities. We can ensure a healthier and safer 2024 for our children and the years ahead by staying informed, addressing vaccine hesitancy, and maintaining vaccination schedules.

Here’s to a new year focused on the health and protection of our children!

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Sources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Weekly Flu Vaccination Dashboard

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Prevent Seasonal Flu

Statista: Vaccine-preventable diseases in the U.S. — statistics & facts

Creating a Germ-Free Future by Vaccinating Kids and Pets

Similar to humans, our little furry pets also carry a variety of germs that can cause us to get sick. Like our children, our pets closely interact with their environments, rolling around in the grass and dirt, and getting into all sorts of trouble. This results in our pets carrying some types of bacteria and viruses that can cause people to get sick. Young kids are more likely to catch infections from pets because they try to kiss them, take their food, and put their fingers in their mouths that may be contaminated.

One of the most common viruses shared between humans and pets is gastroenteritis, also known as a stomach bug. Symptoms dealing with this infection include lethargy, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea (potentially with blood), and weight loss due to fluid depletion. While not exclusive to all illnesses, gastroenteritis might be transmitted between dogs and humans through stool or even saliva. In the case of cats and salmonella, transmission can happen through litter boxes and as they freely move around the household.

Children and pets are both highly active and don’t understand the potential dangers surrounding them, which can make them vulnerable to infections and diseases. Children and pets love to explore their surroundings and touch what they can, which exposes them daily to a series of viruses. For parents, it’s important to create an environment that prevents infections from spreading.

To ensure the health and safety of infants and young children, it is important to have constant supervision whenever a child is in the presence of animals. Children shouldn’t kiss animals or put their hands, or any objects, into their mouths after their interaction. Whenever a child is finished playing with their pet, ensure you take them to wash their hands with soap and water. For pregnant women, it’s important to wash your hands before breastfeeding or preparing formula, and to keep children away from animals during their feeding times to avoid the risk of bites or injuries.

While most families own a cat or dog, some people also acquire other species as pets that can carry harmful germs. It’s recommended that children under 5 years old avoid contact with:

● Reptiles (lizards, snakes, and turtles)

● Amphibians (frogs, toads, newts, and salamanders)

● Backyard poultry, including baby chicks or ducklings

● Rodents (rats, mice, hamsters, gerbils, and guinea pigs)

Also, you are advised to be extra cautious when you take your child under 5 to a farm or petting zoo.

Vaccinations can be used as a protective shield against a range of infectious diseases, helping to safeguard the health of children and pets. Immunizations stimulate the immune system to recognize and fight back against specific pathogens. This prepares the body to take defensive action if a child ends up putting a dog’s toy in their mouth or they forget to wash their hands before touching their face. In the case of pets, vaccinations help contracting illnesses like rabies, parvovirus, distemper, and feline leukemia.

While we normally vaccinate ourselves to fight against diseases, it’s also important to get our pets immunized. By protecting our animals, we can create a safer environment for human-animal interactions.

Ensuring your children and pets are up to date on their vaccinations will help prevent germs from crossing over and ensure pregnant women, newborns, children under 5, and those with weak immune systems have a higher chance of fighting against illness. Beyond individual protection, vaccines contribute to creating the well-being of a community and preventing the spread of infectious diseases. By following the guidelines above, we can create a safer and healthier environment for both children and pets.

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Sources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Healthy Pets, Healthy People

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: How to Stay Healthy Around Pets and Other Animals

Medline Plus: Gastroenteritis

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