Dear Anti-Vaxxers,
It would seem a formal introduction is in order between you and I. For one, others who are adamant supporters of vaccination have often painted you in a negative light, ultimately raising questions regarding your character, intelligence, and integrity. An apology is certainly in order. The problem stems not from those such as yourself, but from the proliferation of false information and subsequent manipulation of those trying to do the best for their families and friends.
Access to quality information is often taken for granted and it is human nature to want immediate access to answers that will support our previously held beliefs. Information is power. When we have the right information, we have the capacity to make changes in the way we view health and make informed decisions. When equipped with accurate and timely information, it is our responsibility to utilize what we know to care for ourselves and for those around us. Thus, with all of the information known and proven regarding the benefits of vaccination, it is imperative that we choose to save others the preventable pain and suffering of life threatening diseases.
So, anti-vaxxers and pro-vaxxers alike, what can we do? Let us begin by listening to experts in the field. We must ask as many questions as we need to make informed decisions.We must refuse to be complicit and amplify the loud noise that is social media and inaccurate sources. We must question the headlines, check our sources, maintain an open mind when conducting research, and trust that organizations like the CDC have our best interests at heart. Most importantly, we must act with our hearts and minds together. Our families, friends, and communities are counting on us. We can’t afford to let them down.
Sincerely your pro-vaxx friend,
Erik
Side note, here is an FAQ for any questions you may have regarding vaccines:
Q: Do vaccines cause Autism?
A: No. Several major studies have been conducted to test the hypothesis that vaccines may contribute to the development of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Every study since the retracted 1998 Wakefield study has shown no evidence to support such a claim.*1
Q: Do vaccines contain unsafe toxins?
A: Often vaccines do contain trace amounts of substances such as formaldehyde, aluminum, or mercury. However, the amount within a vaccine is miniscule when compared to the amount the average human body is exposed to each day. For reference, “ infants receive about 4.4 milligrams* of aluminum in the first six months of life from vaccines, yet receive more than that in their diet. Breast-fed infants ingest about 7 milligrams, formula-fed infants ingest about 38 milligrams, and infants who are fed soy formula ingest almost 117 milligrams of aluminum during the first six months of life."*2
Q: Can vaccines infect an individual with the disease it’s trying to prevent?
A: No. Due to the process in which vaccines are created now, viruses contained are either dead or disabled meaning infection is not possible. Patients often exhibit symptoms after a vaccine, but these are not of the disease, but of the immune system's response and creation of antibodies.*3
Q: Are vaccines worth the risk?
A: Yes! Vaccines are both safe and effective at preventing the spread and severity of certain illnesses. Not only do vaccines protect yourself, but can offer protection to those unable to receive a vaccination due to disqualifying pre-existing health conditions.
*1 Taylor, Luke E, et al. “Vaccines Are Not Associated with Autism: An Evidence-Based Meta-Analysis of Case-Control and Cohort Studies.” Science Direct, 9 May 2014, www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0264410X14006367.
*2 “What's in Vaccines? Ingredients and Vaccine Safety.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 5 Aug. 2019, www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vac-gen/additives.htm
*3 Writers, Staff. “Vaccine Myths Debunked.” PublicHealth.org, PublicHealth.org, 27 May 2021, www.publichealth.org/public-awareness/understanding-vaccines/vaccine-myt....
