CHA Supports Vaccine Research and Family Education

Over the past 50 years, vaccines have prevented the deaths of an estimated 154 million children worldwide.

Vaccination efforts help prevent public health tragedies within our communities and protect kids and their families from communicable diseases that can have life-altering effects. Innumerable cases of tuberculosis, measles, polio, diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis have been avoided through routine vaccination.

However, the number of children receiving vaccinations has declined in recent years.

The availability of evidence-based data about vaccines helps families make informed decisions when it comes time to immunize their children.

Conflicting content in online forums and social media can make it difficult for parents to locate trustworthy resources. That's why the Children’s Hospital Association supports efforts to educate families about vaccines.

The best place to learn about vaccines is from a pediatrician or pediatric health care provider working in our nation’s children’s hospitals.

These trusted sources of information can help parents make empowered choices about childhood vaccinations. This is especially important for children with medical complexity or chronic conditions who are at an increased risk of contracting additional illnesses due to their compromised immune systems.

Additionally, we urge caution when considering changes to long-standing vaccination guidelines for children. Developed over decades, these guidelines are based on evidence-based research.

CHA supports continuing pediatric vaccine research, including well-designed clinical trials, focused on ensuring vaccinations remain safe and effective for our nation’s children.

It’s never been more important to give families the information they need to vaccinate with confidence. Medical professionals will provide science-based answers and support.

Every child deserves the best chance at a healthy life — and vaccines help make that possible.