By Emilio Sanchez
Miami-Dade Health
Though vaccines are probably de the best way to avoid communicable diseases, the number of people who are opting out of childhood vaccinations has increased in the United States in recent years.
This trend affects especially children that die of complications from easily treatable diseases such as measles.
Vaccines are safe and effective, and the numbers related to vaccination campaigns prove it. Since 1980, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), cases of diseases treated with vaccines have been reduced by more than 5,000 million.
In fact, some of the deadliest epidemics have completely disappeared. Each year, vaccines save around two and three million people, particularly children and the elderly, the most vulnerable group.
Like any medication, vaccines may have some side effects, but they would always be mild or moderate in nature, and a much better option than some of the worts communicable diseases. In any case, it is worth going through a few side effects to maintain good health.
Contrary to popular belief, there is no scientific evidence that can link vaccines (against rubella, measles, and mumps) with autism.
Other essential vaccines include the one that fights tuberculosis (BCG), which is administered at birth; the pentavalent (against diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, and hepatitis B); poliomyelitis; chickenpox.
So, ask your doctor about the vaccines you and your children should get, as vaccination is the best health insurance you can get.
