Vaccines have played a critical role in improving population health for generations, yet historical inequities, medical mistrust, and unequal access continue to shape how vaccines are experienced by many communities today, particularly vulnerable and historically underserved population. This session will explore the present, history, and future of vaccines in the US and how past public health practices influence present-day trust and decision-making. Centering family perspectives and community experience, the session will highlight how SC Families for Vaccines works alongside families and local partners to support vaccine confidence and access, especially among populations most impacted by health disparities.
Objectives
At the completion of this activity, participants will be able to:
Explain how vaccines work to prevent infectious diseases and protect individual health.
Describe the concept of herd immunity and why high vaccination rates are critical to protecting vulnerable populations.
Identify key public health benefits of vaccination, including reduced disease spread, prevention of outbreaks, and improved community health outcomes.