The American Academy of Pediatrics Vermont Chapter and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) believe that immunizations are the safest and most cost-effective way of preventing disease, disability, and death. To see just how effective vaccines have been in reducing diseases, see the chart at the bottom of the page.
We urge parents to make sure that their children are immunized against dangerous childhood diseases since it is always better to prevent a disease than to have to treat it or live with the consequences of having it. If you have questions about immunizations, we encourage you to talk to your pediatrician. Additionally, we’ve posted below a number of resources from the AAP’s parent information website, HealthChildren.org.
Common Myths About Immunizations
Recommended Immunization Schedules
Vaccine Ingredients: Frequently Asked Questions
Weighing the Risks and Benefits
Source: Centers for Disease Control, January 2011, http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/pinkbook/downloads/appendices/G/impact-of-vaccines.pdf
Disease |
20th Century Annual Morbidity |
2010 Reported Cases |
% Decrease |
Smallpox | 29,005 | 0 | 100% |
Diphtheria | 21,053 | 0 | 100% |
Pertussis | 200,752 | 21,219 | 89% |
Tetanus
|
580 | 8 | 99% |
Polio (paralytic) | 16,316 | 0 | 100% |
Measles
|
530,217 | 61 | >99% |
Mumps | 162,344 | 2,528 | 98% |
Rubella | 47,745 | 6 | >99% |
CRS | 152 | 0 | 100% |
Haemophilus influenzae
(<5 years of age)
|
20,000 (est.) |
270
(16 serotype b and 254
unknown serotype)
|
99% |
|