Tag: Tennessee

Infants Tummy Troubles Could Be Rotavirus

It’s a common infection that might look like a routine childhood sickness. Rotavirus is a highly contagious virus that primarily affects infants and young children, causing severe diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain. This virus was first discovered in 1973 in children suffering from gastroenteritis samples. Before a vaccine was created, rotavirus was the highest cause of severe diarrhea in babies and young children in the United States.

Transmission

The virus sheds in an infected person’s stool and is transmitted through direct contact with contaminated hands or objects, such as toys, surfaces, or utensils. It can also spread by consuming contaminated food or water or close contact with an infected person. This is easy to spread to children as they can forget to wash their hands.

Symptoms of Rotavirus

The symptoms of rotavirus infection typically begin within two days of exposure to the virus and can last for 3–8 days. Common symptoms include:

● Severe watery diarrhea

● Vomiting

● Fever

● Abdominal pain

● Dehydration (which can be severe and life-threatening, especially in young children)

Most children recover from rotavirus without long-term health effects, with symptoms typically lasting about a week. However, if dehydration occurs, it can lead to serious complications, so it’s important to contact your healthcare provider immediately if your child shows symptoms.

Prevention of Rotavirus

A series of vaccines weren’t officially developed until the early 2000s. These vaccines are given orally and recommended for infants at two months of age. The vaccination schedule typically includes two to three doses, depending on the vaccine used.

The rotavirus vaccine is determined to be highly effective. During the first year of life, it provides 85% to 98% protection against severe illness and hospitalization and 74% to 87% against rotavirus illness of any severity. The introduction of these vaccines has led to a significant decrease in the number of severe rotavirus cases and hospitalizations.

As a parent, especially if you’re new to it, your child’s health is your main concern. While rotavirus is one illness that can impact your child, there are several others to be cautious about. It’s important to identify this infection due to its symptoms, which can resemble normal things an infant goes through. Rotavirus can be a serious illness, but you can protect your child from its effects with proper vaccination and preventive measures. By staying informed, practicing good hygiene, and consulting your healthcare provider, you will have no problem identifying any issues.

Sources:

National Library of Medicine: Rotavirus Vaccines: Effectiveness, Safety and Future Directions

CDC: About Rotavirus

Mayo Clinic: Rotavirus

Immunization Month in Tennessee: Protecting and Educating for Better Health

August is Immunization Month, a crucial time for Tennesseans to come together and focus on the importance of vaccinations. This month, we celebrate the life-saving impact of vaccines, educate our communities on the benefits of immunization, and encourage everyone in Tennessee to stay up-to-date with their vaccinations. Let’s explore why Immunization Month is vital for our state and how you can contribute to a healthier Tennessee.

The Importance of Immunization in Tennessee

Vaccines are one of the most effective public health tools available. In Tennessee, they prevent the spread of infectious diseases, save lives, and protect future generations. Diseases like measles, polio, and whooping cough, once common and often deadly, have been significantly reduced or eradicated thanks to widespread immunization efforts.

Protecting Tennessee Communities

Herd immunity is achieved when a large portion of our population is vaccinated. This means that even those who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants, elderly individuals, and those with compromised immune systems, are protected from the spread of contagious diseases. Immunization is a collective responsibility that helps safeguard the health of our entire Tennessee community.

Educating and Engaging Tennesseans

Education is a cornerstone of Immunization Month. Misconceptions and misinformation about vaccines can lead to vaccine hesitancy. By providing accurate information and addressing concerns, we can help Tennesseans make informed decisions about their health. Health Hero and other organizations are dedicated to offering resources, hosting events, and engaging with communities across Tennessee to spread knowledge about the benefits of vaccines.

Celebrating Tennessee’s Progress

Immunization Month is also a time to celebrate our progress in public health in Tennessee. Over the decades, vaccines have saved millions of lives and have been instrumental in eradicating or controlling deadly diseases. This month, we honor the scientists, healthcare workers, and advocates who have worked tirelessly to advance immunization efforts in our state.

How Tennesseans Can Get Involved

  1. Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated with the latest information about vaccines and immunization schedules. Trusted sources like the CDC and WHO provide valuable insights and updates.
  2. Get Vaccinated: Ensure you and your family are up-to-date with all recommended vaccines. Encourage friends and loved ones to do the same.
  3. Spread the Word: Use your voice on social media platforms to share accurate vaccine information. Join the conversation and help dispel myths surrounding immunization.
  4. Support Local Events: Participate in local health events and campaigns. Health fairs, vaccination drives, and educational seminars are great opportunities to learn and contribute.
  5. Advocate for Vaccination: Engage with community leaders and policymakers to promote the importance of vaccines. Advocacy can lead to better funding for immunization programs and improved vaccine access.

Looking Ahead for Tennessee

As we observe Immunization Month, let’s reflect on our progress and the work that still needs to be done in Tennessee. Vaccines are a testament to the power of science and collective action. By continuing to educate, advocate, and immunize, we can ensure a healthier future for all Tennesseans.

Join us this August in celebrating Immunization Month. Together, we can protect, educate, and celebrate the incredible impact of vaccines on our health and well-being. Let’s commit to staying informed, getting vaccinated, and spreading the word. After all, a healthier Tennessee starts with us.

Visit www.healthherotn.com to see when our vaccination clinics are taking place across Tennessee. Let’s work together to keep our communities healthy and safe!

Fact Check: Skipping Vaccinations Puts College Campuses at Risk for Dangerous Disease Outbreaks

Vaccinations are one of the most effective ways to prevent the spreading of contagious diseases. Yet, despite their proven track record, vaccine hesitancy is on the rise, leading to increased risks for individuals and communities alike. The decision to skip vaccinations doesn’t just affect the unvaccinated person — it has far-reaching consequences that can lead to severe outbreaks of dangerous diseases, particularly on college campuses. Here are some eye-opening facts highlighting the importance of staying up-to-date with vaccinations, especially for college students.

Why College Students Need to Be Vaccinated

Colleges and universities are unique environments where students live, study, and socialize in close quarters. This proximity facilitates the rapid spread of infectious diseases, making it essential for students to be fully vaccinated. Dormitories, classrooms, and social gatherings can become hotspots for disease transmission if vaccination rates are low. College students often travel internationally, increasing the risk of encountering and spreading infectious diseases. By getting vaccinated, college students not only protect themselves but also help maintain a healthy campus environment and prevent potential outbreaks.

Fact 1: Measles Resurgence

Statistic: Measles cases increased by 556% in Europe from 2016 to 2019 due to declining vaccination rates. Source: World Health Organization (WHO)

Measles is a highly contagious virus that was once nearly eradicated in many parts of the world due to widespread vaccination efforts. However, declining vaccination rates have led to a resurgence of this dangerous disease. In Europe, measles cases skyrocketed by 556% between 2016 and 2019, demonstrating how quickly the virus can spread when vaccination coverage drops. Measles can cause severe complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death, making vaccination essential for college students.

Fact 2: Whooping Cough (Pertussis) Outbreaks

Statistic: In 2012, the United States experienced the largest whooping cough outbreak in nearly 60 years, with over 48,000 cases and 20 deaths. Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Whooping cough, or pertussis, is another vaccine-preventable disease that has returned to areas with low vaccination rates. The 2012 outbreak in the United States saw over 48,000 reported cases and resulted in 20 deaths, primarily among infants who were too young to be fully vaccinated. On college campuses, whooping cough can spread rapidly among students, leading to severe coughing fits, pneumonia, and other complications. Ensuring that college students are vaccinated helps protect them and vulnerable populations they may come into contact with.

Fact 3: Polio Reemergence

Statistic: Polio, a disease that was nearly eradicated, has seen a resurgence in countries with low vaccination rates, including parts of Africa and Asia. Source: Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI)

Polio, a crippling and potentially deadly disease, was on the verge of global eradication thanks to effective vaccination campaigns. However, in recent years, polio has reemerged in countries with low vaccination coverage, particularly in parts of Africa and Asia. This resurgence threatens to undo decades of progress and highlights the critical need for maintaining high vaccination rates to keep polio at bay. College students, who often travel internationally for study abroad programs, are at an increased risk of encountering and spreading polio. Vaccination is crucial to prevent the reintroduction of this disease into previously polio-free areas.

Fact 4: Herd Immunity Threshold

Statistic: Approximately 95% of the population needs to be vaccinated to achieve herd immunity for measles. Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Herd immunity occurs when a significant portion of the population is vaccinated, thereby providing indirect protection to those who are not immune. About 95% of the population needs to be vaccinated for highly contagious diseases like measles to achieve herd immunity. College campuses require high vaccination rates to maintain this protective barrier. When vaccination rates fall below this threshold, outbreaks can occur, putting everyone at risk, especially those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons.

Fact 5: Economic Impact of Outbreaks

Statistic: The 2014–2015 measles outbreak in the United States cost public health departments an estimated $3.4 million to contain. Source: Journal of Health Affairs

Disease outbreaks are a health risk and a significant economic burden. The 2014–2015 measles outbreak in the United States cost public health departments an estimated $3.4 million to contain. These costs include medical treatment, outbreak investigation, and public health interventions. Preventing outbreaks through vaccination is far more cost-effective than responding to them after they occur. College campuses can face significant financial and operational disruptions during disease outbreaks, emphasizing the importance of vaccination.

Fact 6: Mumps Outbreaks in Colleges

Statistic: In 2016, a mumps outbreak affected over 2,000 students across 47 states in the U.S., primarily in college settings. Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Mumps is another disease that has seen outbreaks recently, particularly in settings where close contact is common, such as colleges. In 2016, a mumps outbreak affected over 2,000 students across 47 states in the U.S. Mumps can lead to complications such as meningitis, encephalitis, and infertility. Ensuring that students are vaccinated before college is crucial to preventing such outbreaks.

The decision to skip vaccinations has severe consequences beyond individual health risks. It can lead to outbreaks of dangerous diseases, strain public health resources, and incur significant economic costs. Vaccinations are a proven, safe, and effective way to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community.

Don’t let misinformation and hesitancy put you and others at risk. Stay informed, stay vaccinated, and help prevent the resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases.

By understanding these facts and sharing them with others, we can work together to maintain high vaccination rates and protect public health.

From Farm to Family: Vaccination in Rural Tennessee Communities

Hello everyone! Grab a comfy seat and let’s chat about something as essential as morning coffee — community health and vaccination in rural Tennessee.

Meet the Johnsons: A Family Rooted in Tradition

First up, let us introduce you to the Johnson family. They’ve been farming the same land for generations, growing everything from tomatoes to cucumbers. But this year, they added something new to their farm’s legacy: getting vaccinated.

The Real Deal: Challenges in Rural Healthcare

Now, you might be wondering, “What’s the big deal?” In rural areas like ours, getting to the doctor isn’t always easy. With the nearest clinic miles away, it can feel like a long journey. Plus, when you’re running a farm, there’s always something that needs doing — cows to milk, fields to plow, and chickens that need feeding.

The Decision: Why the Johnsons Chose to Vaccinate

The Johnsons heard all kinds of stories about vaccinations, some of them pretty far-fetched. But they also knew the facts: vaccines protect not just them, but their whole community. “It’s like taking care of our crops,” Mr. Johnson said. “We’re making sure everything stays healthy.”

They also had a chat with their friendly neighborhood nurse, Betty, who visits the farm regularly. “She’s practically family,” Mrs. Johnson said. “She explained how vaccines work in simple terms, none of that complicated stuff.”

Community Spirit: Support from Local Healthcare Providers

Betty wasn’t the only one cheering them on. Health Hero set up a pop-up clinic right in town. No more long drives, just a quick trip into town.

The Outcome: A Healthier, Stronger Community

Since getting vaccinated, the Johnsons have felt a weight lifted off their shoulders. “It’s like when you finally get rain after a dry spell,” Mrs. Johnson said. “We feel safer, our neighbours feel safer, and we can keep on farming without worrying as much about getting sick.”

The Johnsons’ decision influenced others in the community. More and more people started getting vaccinated, and the town saw fewer illnesses and more peace of mind. It’s amazing what a little shot in the arm can do!

A Slice of Life: Humor and Heart

The Johnsons are just one family, but their story is relatable. It reminds us that even in the busy life of farming, taking a moment to care for ourselves and our community is crucial.

So, whether you’re working the fields or just tending your garden, remember: health is wealth. And getting vaccinated is one way we can all contribute to a healthier, happier Tennessee. Here’s to good health and strong communities!

Stay healthy, Tennessee, and remember — we’re all in this together, from farm to family.

www.healthherotn.com

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Dr. Casey

It Takes Work to Stay Well

Like everyone else, I do a lot of things. In addition to being a researcher, professor, advocate, writer, mentor, and other professional roles, I’m a mother. And that is my most important job. If you ask my oldest, “What is your mom’s most important job?” He would say, “Making sure we are healthy, safe, and happy.” That’s because I remind him of that almost daily (especially when he is supposed to be doing something for his health that he is not very excited about — like turning off the screen to brush his teeth before bed or trying new vegetables that he insists he has had and make him “sick,” ha). When I have to insist on an action that is important for his health but that he may not enjoy as much as playtime, I try to explain why it is important (more than just, “veggies make you big and strong”). I want him to really understand why he needs to wash his hands and get enough sleep and things that sometimes aren’t fun. I approach these situations with the same mentality as when I am teaching medical students or talking with patients, because it is important for people to know the why behind actions. I wouldn’t tell a patient they should have their blood sugar checked, “because I said so.” As I am always saying, providing information and answering questions is extremely important, and it shows respect for others that you will take time to help them understand. A little respect goes a long way.

Thinking about this made me want to talk about some “why’s” about vaccination.

Why is it important for my child to be “up-to-date” on vaccinations?

I am so glad you asked! There are several reasons, some of which I will discuss in this post (and others in future posts).

Vaccines help keep kids healthy!

This one is probably pretty obvious, but it cannot be overstated.

Vaccines help kids build immunity before they are exposed to possibly harmful, and even deadly, diseases. These diseases include hepatitis B, mumps, polio, tetanus, whooping cough, and chickenpox, among many others.

There are countless things we cannot always (or completely, or sometimes ever) control or protect our children from: motor vehicle collisions, social media, environmental disasters, bullying, genetic diseases, bad influences, to name very few. But vaccine-preventable diseases are something we can protect them from. This makes taking action to prevent whatever pain, harm, and negative outcomes we can even more important. We have to intervene in the few ways that we can to keep our children healthy and safe (and happy).

Vaccine-preventable diseases have not gone away…

In the U.S., we are very fortunate that we no longer face many of these diseases on a daily or even regular basis. So fortunate that…sometimes it can be easy to forget how dangerous they are, or even that they still exist. Personally, I don’t spend much time worrying about polio. However, individuals in Pakistan and Afghanistan cannot say the same because there are still cases of polio in those countries. I live in a country where it has been eliminated, and my family has been vaccinated against it.

We have seen a resurgence of measles in the U.S., and part of that is because we live in a society where global travel is easy and fairly convenient. Unvaccinated people may travel to places where there are measles and bring the disease back to the U.S. with them.

Sometimes people see decreased rates of diseases and think, “I don’t need to get a vaccine for that! It’s not a big issue anymore!” However, that is a false sense of security. The reason the rates are lower is because of ongoing vaccination.

Take this analogy: Joe has high blood pressure. A doctor prescribes Joe medication and his blood pressure goes down over time. Joe thinks, “Hey, now I don’t have high blood pressure, so I don’t need to take this medication!” and Joe stops taking the blood pressure medicine. Well…what do we know is going to happen?

When Joe stops taking his medication, his blood pressure is going to go up again. The reason it went down was because it was being maintained by the medicine he was taking. The same is true for vaccines and the diseases they prevent.

Vaccine-preventable diseases are expensive

Health care can have high costs for individuals, their families, and even for society overall. This can be in the form of doctor visits, medication, hospital stays, and other direct medical costs. It can also be costly by forcing your child to miss days of school, and you having to miss days of work to care for him or her, or having to pay someone to care for your child while you work. A vaccine followed by no sick visits to the doctor, no medicines, no hospital stays, and no missed work or school and no paying for extra childcare is a much wiser (and less painful) investment.

It’s more than just your child’s health at stake

Vaccines prevent infectious diseases, meaning diseases that are spread easily from one person to another. When you child gets sick from one of these diseases, it puts many other people at risk, too. Children come in contact with other children, teachers, siblings, parents, grandparents, among others, and children somehow tend to touch everything (which is one of life’s mysteries). When a child gets sick, it may quickly put numerous others at risk, and some of those people may be extra vulnerable to illness, making diseases riskier for them than the average person. Also, in a previous post, I discussed the concept of herd immunity. By making sure your child is vaccinated, you are doing your part to increase the immunity of the community as a whole, helping protect those who are not able to be vaccinated for health reasons.

What’s the take-home message?

These are just a small handful of reasons why it is so important for your child to stay current on their vaccinations, but I wanted to highlight these because I think they are some of the most important ones. Staying up-to-date on vaccines is so important! With our busy lives and the overactive world we live in, it is easy to let deadlines slip by, but vaccines should be something that you make a top priority. You will never look back and regret protecting your child from suffering a painful or deadly disease. As parents, preventing whatever harm we can is the least we can do for our children. It takes work to stay well, and until they are old enough to be out on their own, our kids are depending on us to keep them healthy.

— —

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.

The Freedom to Choose Vaccination: Respecting Everyone’s Rights

In a world where personal health choices can have far-reaching implications, vaccination often ignites passionate debates. As we navigate these discussions, we must recognize our society’s fundamental principle: the freedom to choose. Whether you decide to get vaccinated or not, this choice should not infringe upon the rights of others to make their own decisions. Let’s explore why respecting each other’s choices is vital for maintaining a harmonious and healthy community and delve into why people make different choices regarding vaccination.

Understanding Personal Freedom and Public Health

At its core, vaccination is a personal health decision. It involves weighing the benefits and risks, considering personal beliefs, and sometimes, medical advice. For some, vaccines represent a vital tool to protect themselves and their loved ones from preventable diseases. For others, skepticism and concerns about potential side effects lead to a different choice.

The freedom to choose is a cornerstone of individual autonomy. However, personal choices can have collective consequences on public health. Vaccines protect those who receive them and contribute to the broader concept of herd immunity. This communal protection is especially crucial for those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical conditions, such as allergies or weakened immune systems.

Why Some People Choose to Get Vaccinated

Protecting Personal and Public Health: Many individuals get vaccinated to protect themselves from serious illnesses. Vaccines have been proven to reduce the risk of contracting and spreading infectious diseases.

  1. Preventing Severe Illness: Vaccinations protect individuals from severe and potentially life-threatening diseases such as measles, polio, influenza, hepatitis, meningitis, and whooping cough. By getting vaccinated, people can avoid the debilitating effects of these diseases and reduce the likelihood of severe health complications.
  2. Herd Immunity: Vaccinated individuals contribute to herd immunity, which protects those who cannot get vaccinated due to medical reasons. This communal protection helps prevent outbreaks and protect vulnerable populations.
  3. Scientific Trust: Some people trust the rigorous scientific research and regulatory processes that vaccines undergo before being approved for public use. They believe in the effectiveness and safety of vaccines based on evidence and expert recommendations.
  4. Travel and Work Requirements: Vaccination is often required for travel to certain countries and employment in specific sectors, such as healthcare. Compliance with these requirements is a practical reason for some to choose vaccination.
  5. Compliance with School Requirements: Many schools require students to be vaccinated to enroll. This policy aims to protect all students and staff from outbreaks of preventable diseases. Parents often choose to vaccinate their children to comply with these requirements and ensure they can attend school without issue.

Why Some People Choose Not to Get Vaccinated

  1. Concerns About Side Effects: Some individuals are worried about potential side effects of vaccines, both immediate and long-term. Personal experiences or anecdotal reports often fuel this concern.
  2. Personal or Religious Beliefs: Some people’s personal, philosophical, or religious beliefs may lead them to refuse vaccines. These beliefs can be deeply ingrained, forming a core part of an individual’s identity.
  3. Distrust in Pharmaceutical Companies or Government: Skepticism towards pharmaceutical companies and government agencies can deter people from getting vaccinated. Historical instances of medical malpractice contribute to this distrust.
  4. Belief in Natural Immunity: Some individuals prefer to rely on natural immunity acquired through exposure to diseases rather than vaccination, believing it to be more effective or safer.

The Balance Between Rights and Responsibilities

Balancing individual rights with collective responsibilities is not a new challenge. Society continuously navigates this delicate equilibrium in various domains, from traffic laws to smoking regulations. The key is to ensure that one person’s exercise of their freedom does not harm others.

In the realm of vaccination, this means acknowledging that while everyone has the right to choose, those choices can impact the health and safety of the broader community. For instance, declining vaccination in a densely populated area can increase the risk of outbreaks, putting vulnerable populations at greater risk.

Respecting Differing Views

Healthy debates are an integral part of a vibrant democracy. However, these debates should be rooted in mutual respect and understanding. People choose not to vaccinate for various reasons, including personal beliefs, medical concerns, or distrust of pharmaceutical companies. While these reasons may differ from mainstream views, they are valid perspectives shaped by individual experiences and knowledge.

Similarly, those who choose to vaccinate often do so based on scientific evidence, advice from healthcare providers, and a desire to protect themselves and their community. Their decisions are equally valid and should be respected.

Promoting Informed Choices

Education is essential to fostering understanding and respect for differing views on vaccination. By providing accurate, evidence-based information, we can help individuals make informed choices that align with their values and beliefs.

Unity in Diversity

The freedom to choose whether or not to get vaccinated is a fundamental right. However, exercising this right comes with respecting others’ choices.

By promoting respect, understanding, and informed decision-making, we can create an environment where everyone feels empowered to make the best choices for themselves and their families. Ultimately, our collective well-being depends on our ability to coexist with differing perspectives, united by the shared goal of a healthier, more inclusive society.

By embracing the freedom to choose and respecting the choices of others, we lay the foundation for a compassionate and resilient community.

At Health Hero, we have been providing communities with vaccinations for 13 years, ensuring that those who choose to get vaccinated can access safe and effective options. While we respect everyone’s freedom to choose whether or not to get vaccinated, we firmly support vaccination as a vital tool for public health. Together, we can build a healthier, more resilient community.

Categories
Dr. Casey

Can an “Eliminated Disease” Become Un-eliminated?

Did you know that there are certain diseases that are considered eliminated in some parts of the world? If you are anything like me or my students, your first thought might be — How? Or maybe just — Wow. Or, I am sure there are plenty of people out there whose first thought is — Prove it, and/or — Yeah, right. Regardless, it is a pretty amazing concept to think about: Eliminating. A. Disease. But before I get too far ahead of myself, I want to explain what I mean by “elimination.”

Control, Eliminate, Eradicate

These are three important terms in public health and in general healthcare when it comes to diseases, so I want to take a minute to explain them one at a time.

Control. Control means using treatment and taking actions to make the outcomes of a disease better and to minimize its spread. Think about influenza (the flu), for example. Seasonal flu comes around every year, and we cannot completely prevent it (although vaccines help a lot!). So, we control the flu by doing things like: avoiding contact with people who are sick, washing our hands frequently, and disinfecting shared surfaces, among other things.

Eliminate. Elimination means stopping a certain disease from being transmitted in a specific location or area, but not removing the disease worldwide. Basically, clearing a region of a specific disease. In the United States, we can thank Dr. Jonas Salk and the vaccine he developed for eliminating polio. Actually, polio has been eliminated from almost every country in the world, which is a good lead in to the next term…

Eradicate. A disease is declared eradicated when it is not found or transmitted anywhere in the world. It seems practically impossible. In fact, only two infectious diseases have been completely eradicated…ever. The only human disease that has been officially eradicated is smallpox (in 1980). I will probably come back to smallpox sometime because it is a fascinating and amazing journey, but for now, the main thing to know is that, thankfully, it is something we do not have to worry about!

What Diseases Have Been Eliminated in the U.S.?

In the U.S., the following human diseases are considered eliminated: smallpox, malaria, polio, rubella, mumps, diphtheria, and measles, with several other diseases close to reaching that status. This means that, even though there might be some cases of these diseases here and there, there have been no ongoing disease transmissions for over a year. We have had so much success eliminating many of these diseases largely thanks to vaccines that have given people protection from being infected. However, back to our original question…

Can a Disease Lose Its Elimination Status?

Unfortunately, the answer is YES. Elimination does not mean that a disease cannot come back to a region or area, but usually, cases of that disease would come in from another place (like visitors bringing germs along). When an event like this happens, the next steps really depend on what the community is like. For example, if visitors bring in a few cases of the mumps, but members of the community are all up to date on their vaccines (which include mumps), then these outsider cases probably won’t have a huge effect on the people there. However, if members of the community have started thinking they aren’t at risk for mumps because no one ever gets it where they live, and they have stopped getting vaccinated for it, then they are far more likely to catch the mumps that are now in their area, and to spread it to others who have lowered their guards and stopped vaccinating.

Why Is This Important Right Now?

Understanding the importance of how diseases spread — and right under our noses without us suspecting anything — is critical. Right now, we are seeing an example of this every day when it comes to the measles. As a refresher, measles is a serious, even life-threatening virus that is mainly transmitted through the air (when people cough or sneeze, for example) and through other close contact. Measles is one of the most contagious of all infectious diseases! The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) say that up to 9 out of 10 susceptible people who have close contact with a measles patient will develop measles. The disease is especially common among children, but measles can be prevented through a combined vaccine often called “MMR” (meaning it vaccinates against measles-mumps-rubella). Just one does of MMR vaccine is around 93% effective at preventing measles!

In fact, in large part due to measles vaccines, measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000. Unfortunately, the case isn’t closed. Right now, we are getting closer and closer to measles being “un-eliminated” in the U.S. as the numbers of measles cases continues climbing. Between January 1, 2020 and March 28, 2024, the US has had 338 documented cases of the measles. But, 29% of those cases were in just the first quarter of 2024, which is not a good sign for case numbers for the rest of the year.

Some important things to know are that, of the 338 measles cases, two out of three patients (68%) were unvaccinated for measles. Another 29% of these cases did not know if they had been vaccinated or not, showing how important it is to know our own medical history and advocate for ourselves. Unfortunately, the numbers given here reflect the general population’s prevention, as measles vaccinations have been steadily decreasing for several years.

The Double-Edged Sword of Successful Disease Prevention

This is what I tend to think of as a double-edged sword in the amazing job that public health and medicine have done in eliminating measles in the U.S. It is remarkable that, in the present day, the risk of measles is so low that most people have gone their whole lives without experiencing or even seeing the life-threatening effects of measles. While that is a huge achievement, it tends to lower the population’s guard for protecting against the disease. People are less likely to understand how severe measles can be. And because people do not feel as threatened by measles, they are less likely to take preventive actions like vaccination. When something seems less “real,” or like it doesn’t apply to us, we are not motivated to take action, and this applies far beyond health. For example, I am probably not actively thinking about what kind of maintenance I could or should be doing for my car on a daily basis. I am triggered to action when a “change oil” light comes on. It’s not that I don’t like my car or am just lazy; it is more that, as a society, we have so many things going on at once, that many things do not get our attention until they become a problem or we feel threatened.

So what is critical, is that we don’t fall into the trap of false security just because things seem stable. We cannot treat our health, and the health of others, as a guarantee until it’s not. Because one day, it is possible, and even likely, that there could be a resurgence, change, or unexpected happening in health as we know it, and we want to be protected and to protect others if and when that happens. We should never pass up opportunities to prevent diseases when they are easily available. We should always hope and strive for the best, but prepare for anything we can.

. . .

For More Information

To read more about polio and the development of its life-saving vaccine, check out the World Health Organization’s page: History of the Polio Vaccine

https://www.who.int/news-room/spotlight/history-of-vaccination/history-of-polio-vaccination#:~:text=By%201994%2C%20polio%20had%20been,in%20less%20than%202%20decades.

To read about the crusade against and successful defeat of smallpox, head to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention site and take a look at their History of Smallpox page. It is pretty incredible to see what humans were able to accomplish with the world working together!

https://www.google.com/search?q=when+was+smallpox+eradicated&rlz=1C1GCEB_enUS1070US1070&oq=when+was+small&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUqBwgAEAAYgAQyBwgAEAAYgAQyBggBEEUYOTIHCAIQABiABDIHCAMQABiABDIHCAQQABiABDIHCAUQABiABDIHCAYQABiABDIHCAcQABiABDIHCAgQABiABDIHCAkQABiABNIBCDI3NTRqMGo3qAIAsAIA&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8

To read a lot more information about measles and vaccination and see where I found some of my information for this post, visit the “Measles (Rubeola)” page on the CDC website:

https://www.cdc.gov/measles/index.html

. . .

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.

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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.

. . .

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.

Healthy Kids, Bright Futures: The Connection Between Vaccinations and Student Success in Tennessee

Immunizations play a crucial role in safeguarding children’s health and academic journey, with concrete evidence showcasing the significant impact of vaccinations on school attendance and scholastic achievement. Through compelling case studies, this narrative delves into real-life examples that elucidate the correlation between vaccinations, decreased sick days, and enhanced academic performance among Tennessee students. By exploring these stories, we aim to equip Tennessee parents with insightful perspectives on the profound influence that immunizations can have on their children’s educational success, encouraging proactive choices for brighter futures.

Understanding the Importance of Vaccinations

Connection between Vaccinations and Health

Vaccines are key in maintaining children’s health and protecting against infectious diseases. They prepare the body’s immune system to recognize and combat pathogens. This is particularly critical for children whose immune systems are still developing and who are more vulnerable to illnesses and complications. For instance, measles can lead to serious health problems like pneumonia or encephalitis, but these risks are greatly reduced with vaccination. In Tennessee, widespread immunization efforts have led to a decline in many preventable diseases, contributing to healthier communities. Children who stay healthy can attend school regularly, which is fundamental to their educational growth and overall development. Ensuring that children receive recommended vaccinations on time is essential for parents to help nurture a healthy future for their kids.

Why Vaccines Matter for Education

Vaccinations are more than just a healthcare imperative; they are a critical component of a child’s educational foundation. Vaccines reduce the number of school days missed due to sickness by preventing illness. This uninterrupted attendance is conducive to better learning, ensuring children are present for key lessons and educational activities. Moreover, schools are environments where infections can spread rapidly due to close contact among students. Immunizations play a pivotal role in reducing the spread of diseases within the school setting, protecting the vaccinated individual and their peers. This herd immunity is especially valuable in protecting those who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons. In Tennessee, investment in students’ health through vaccinations is an investment in their education and the broader goal of a more literate, capable future workforce.

Impact of Vaccinations on Student Success

Case Studies: Vaccines and School Attendance

Evidence from case studies across Tennessee illustrates the direct impact vaccinations have on school attendance. For example, a school in Nashville reported a significant decrease in absenteeism after initiating an influenza vaccination program with Health Hero. Before the program, flu outbreaks resulted in considerable classroom disruptions each winter. After the program’s implementation, not only did student attendance improve, but there was also a noticeable decrease in staff sick leaves. In another instance, a rural school district introduced a Hepatitis B vaccination drive, which markedly reduced cases of the disease and related absences. These real-life examples underscore the effectiveness of vaccines in preventing illnesses that lead to missed school days. By prioritizing vaccinations, schools can ensure that students maintain consistent attendance, a crucial factor in academic success.

Insights: Vaccines and Academic Performance

The link between vaccinations and academic performance is supported by research indicating that healthy children are better learners. In Tennessee, studies have observed that students with up-to-date vaccination records tend to have higher grades and test scores. This can be attributed to vaccines reducing the number of school days missed due to illness, allowing students to benefit from more classroom time and continuity in learning. Additionally, healthy children are more likely to participate in class, pay attention, and engage with the material, contributing to better academic outcomes. Furthermore, schools with high vaccination rates report fewer outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases, which can cause widespread absenteeism and disrupt learning for extended periods. These insights clarify that vaccinations are vital for health and enable students to reach their full academic potential.

Closing the Gap: Increasing Vaccination Rates in Tennessee

Vaccination and The Role of Parents

Parents play a critical role in improving vaccination rates in Tennessee. They are the primary decision-makers for their children’s health care and are responsible for ensuring that their children receive the necessary immunizations. This begins with understanding the vaccination schedule and the importance of adhering to it. Staying informed about the types of vaccines and the diseases they prevent is also crucial. Parents can seek information from reliable sources such as pediatricians, school health officials, and public health departments. By keeping their children’s vaccinations up to date, parents help protect their children and fortify the community’s health by contributing to herd immunity. Encouraging dialogue between parents and healthcare providers can address concerns and dispel vaccination myths, leading to higher vaccination rates and healthier schools.

Empowering a Healthier, Brighter Future With Vaccines

Vaccinations are a cornerstone of public health that pave the way for a healthier and brighter future for the children of Tennessee. When communities embrace immunization, they are setting up their youth for success by laying a foundation of good health, which is essential for learning and development. Increasing vaccination rates requires a collective effort that includes parents, schools, healthcare providers, and community leaders. By working together, these stakeholders can create effective communication strategies that emphasize the benefits of vaccines and promote their uptake. Educational programs can help to dispel myths and provide clear, evidence-based information about the safety and effectiveness of vaccines. With the right knowledge, Tennessee communities can empower themselves to make informed decisions about immunizations, leading to higher academic achievements for students and a more robust public health infrastructure.

Vaccination Clinics: A Keystone for Preventive Healthcare in Tennessee

In Tennessee, a significant shift is taking place in the approach to healthcare, with vaccination clinics playing a central role. Unlike the dramatic advancements often seen with surgeries or new treatments, this change is rooted in something more basic yet profoundly impactful: the widespread availability and use of vaccination clinics. These clinics are emerging as more than just places to get vaccinated; they’re foundational to a new healthcare perspective emphasizing prevention over treatment.

Fostering a Culture of Prevention

For too long, the healthcare narrative has been dominated by treating diseases after they occur, often overlooking the immense potential of preventing them in the first place. Vaccination clinics in Tennessee are challenging this narrative, embodying the adage that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. By providing easy and equitable access to vaccines, these clinics are not just preventing individual cases of diseases but fostering a broader culture of preventive healthcare.

Critical Access Points for Underserved Populations

One of Tennessee’s vaccination clinics’ most commendable aspects is their role in serving underserved populations. These clinics are often strategically located in areas with limited healthcare services, offering a lifeline to communities that might otherwise be neglected. By doing so, they ensure everyone has access to essential immunizations regardless of socioeconomic status. This inclusivity is crucial for building a healthier society, as it ensures that no one is left behind in the quest for disease prevention.

Education on Preventive Health Measures

Beyond administering vaccines, these clinics serve as vital educational hubs. They provide individuals and families with information on preventive health measures, empowering them to take charge of their health. This education covers various topics, from regular vaccinations to lifestyle choices that can reduce the risk of chronic diseases. By doing so, vaccination clinics are helping to cultivate a more health-conscious population equipped to make informed decisions about their health.

Early Detection of Potential Outbreaks

Vaccination clinics also play a pivotal role in the early detection of potential outbreaks. By monitoring vaccination rates and patterns, these clinics can help identify areas at risk of outbreaks before they occur. This early warning system is invaluable for the state’s preparedness and response strategies, allowing for swift action to prevent the spread of diseases. In this way, vaccination clinics are not just protecting individuals; they are safeguarding the entire community’s health.

Contributing to State’s Preparedness and Response Strategies

Vaccination clinics contribute to Tennessee’s healthcare system beyond individual and community health. They are critical to the state’s preparedness and response strategies for health emergencies. These clinics help build herd immunity by ensuring high immunization levels, reducing the population’s overall vulnerability to infectious diseases. This collective protection is essential for minimizing the impact of outbreaks when they do occur, enabling a more resilient healthcare system.

Vaccination clinics in Tennessee are proving to be much more than mere points for vaccine administration. They are the keystones of a preventive healthcare culture, offering critical access to underserved populations, educating the public on health prevention, aiding in the early detection of outbreaks, and bolstering the state’s preparedness and response capabilities. As Tennessee continues to invest in these clinics, it is not just investing in vaccines; it is investing in a healthier, more resilient future for all its residents. In the grand scheme of healthcare, vaccination clinics are not just a piece of the puzzle but the cornerstone of the state’s health.

Our Role in Tennessee’s Vaccination Efforts: A First-Person Perspective from Health Hero

At Health Hero, we are deeply committed to enhancing preventive healthcare through accessible vaccination clinics across Tennessee. Our mission is to break down barriers to healthcare access, such as cost, transportation, and time, ensuring that every Tennessean can receive life-saving immunizations. We don’t just administer vaccines; we strive to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and protected.

The significance of our work in providing vaccination clinics cannot be overstated. Our clinics serve as essential access points for vaccinations, health education, and preventive services in regions with limited healthcare resources. This effort is a cornerstone of Tennessee’s healthcare strategy, prioritizing prevention to reduce the incidence of vaccine-preventable diseases, lower healthcare costs, and enhance the overall quality of life for its residents.

Moreover, our involvement in Tennessee underscores the importance of collaboration between the public sector and private organizations in tackling public health challenges. Our success in improving public health outcomes demonstrates the impact that can be achieved when we work together with local communities, schools, and government agencies. At Health Hero, we are not just a service provider but a vital partner in the mission to foster a healthier Tennessee.

Our vaccination clinics are key to Tennessee’s preventive healthcare landscape. Through targeted interventions and a deep understanding of community needs, we believe we can significantly improve public health. As we continue to support Tennessee’s healthcare goals, the contributions of Health Hero and similar organizations will be crucial in securing a healthier future for all its citizens.

Learn more about our clinics at www.healthherotn.com

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