As a medical reporter with 13 years of experience, I’ve seen firsthand the impact of vaccines on modern medicine and public health. Despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary, the anti-vaccination movement has gained traction, fueled by misconceptions and misinformation.
Vaccines have prevented millions of deaths worldwide every year, including six million from measles alone. The science is clear: vaccines are not a matter of opinion, but fact. Studies have consistently shown no link between vaccines and autism, and the risk of serious adverse reactions is extremely low – one in a million.
In contrast to vaccines, many over-the-counter medications come with significant risks, such as aspirin’s association with intracerebral hemorrhage or acetaminophen’s link to acute liver failure. Yet, no widespread anti-medication movement has formed.
It’s puzzling that vaccination rates are so low in certain areas of the US compared to countries where vaccines have been instrumental in saving lives during outbreaks like Ebola. Parents do have a choice, but it’s a luxury not afforded to many others worldwide.
As someone who vaccinated their own children without hesitation, I’m appalled by the “I love my kids” sentiment often used to justify anti-vaccination views. It’s a misguided and insulting narrative that implies vaccine skeptics don’t care about their children’s well-being. The truth is, I vaccinated mine not just because I love them, but also because I love the children of others – every child deserves access to life-saving vaccines.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/01/29/health/gupta-vaccines-essay/index.html