Never Hesitate: Protect Your Child Through Vaccination

In the month of August, we take this opportunity during National Immunization Awareness Month, to highlight the vital role vaccines play in safeguarding the health of our children and communities. Yet, despite overwhelming scientific evidence and decades of safety, some parents remain hesitant about vaccinating their children. This hesitation can have serious consequences, consequences that might have been prevented with a simple, safe, and effective shot.

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As a parent, a public health professional, and a Master Certified Health Education Specialist, I have seen firsthand the devastating impact of preventable diseases. Recently, we have seen concerning, and inexcusable, trends with measles outbreaks, due to the lack of vaccination. As of July 30, 2026, the U.S. has recorded over 2,371 confirmed measles cases, already surpassing the total cases from all of 2025, which was the highest since 1991 (Dall, 2026). 

Alarmingly, about 69% of these cases involve children and teenagers under age 19, with 20% in children under five. While specific details about long-term disabilities are confidential, we know that measles can cause severe complications, such as permanent brain damage or deafness, and, tragically, can be fatal. Most importantly, about 93% of those infected are unvaccinated or have unknown vaccination status. The data clearly shows that low vaccination rates lead to outbreaks, putting vulnerable children and communities at risk.  

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A Preventable Tragedy
Let me share a story that sticks with me. During my work, I once assisted the family of a young child hospitalized with severe complications from measles, a disease that is entirely preventable through vaccination. The child was terribly ill, fighting high fever, rash, and breathing difficulties. This heartbreaking scene could have been avoided if the child had been vaccinated. Sadly, this tragedy is not rare. Many children suffer or even face life-threatening situations from preventable diseases every year.
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This experience reinforced an important truth: vaccines are a powerful tool that protect not only our children but everyone around them, especially those who cannot be vaccinated due to health reasons. When we choose to vaccinate, we’re not just protecting our own children, we are protecting our entire community.

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Why Vaccination Should Never Be Hesitant
Vaccines are rigorously tested for safety and effectiveness. They have saved millions of lives worldwide and continue to prevent outbreaks of dangerous diseases. Hesitating or delaying vaccination puts children at risk of serious illness, hospitalization, or worse. It’s a decision that can have lifelong consequences.
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Every vaccination is an act of love and responsibility. It’s one of the most important steps you can take to ensure your child's health and well-being.

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Learn More
To help you make informed decisions, I encourage you to read more about the safety and importance of vaccinations. Knowledge is power, empowering you to protect your child and those around them. 

Read our full article on the importance of vaccinations and how they protect everyone

Remember, vaccination is a shield that keeps our children safe from preventable diseases. Never hesitate, there is no going back. Choose health, choose protection, and give your child the gift of a healthy future.

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References

• Dall, C. (2026, July 31). US adds 53 more measles cases to its 2026 total. CIDRAP - Center for Infectious Disease Research & Policy Research and Innovation Office, University of Minnesota. https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/measles/us-adds-53-more-measles-cases-its-2026-total
• Shmerling, R. H., MD. (2026, March 9). Measles is making a comeback: Can we stop it? Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/measles-is-making-a-comeback-can-we-stop-it-202503063091