In the United States, vaccines have reduced or eliminated many infectious diseases that once harmed or killed many people. However, the viruses and bacteria that cause these diseases still exist and can be passed on to people who have not been immunized. Diseases that are preventable have many effects on society as a whole: sick children miss school, which can force parents to take off from work. Visits to the doctor’s office are usually necessary. Vaccine-preventable diseases may also result in hospitalization, permanent disability, or even death. Do you really know the impact these vaccine-preventable diseases could have? The polio … Continue reading →