Vaccine Advocacy Starts with Us

Vaccines save lives. They’ve helped eliminate smallpox, nearly wipe out polio, and dramatically reduce diseases like measles, diphtheria, and Hib. But that progress isn’t guaranteed—it can slip away fast if we don’t stay vigilant.

The Threats at Our Doorstep

Right now, efforts are underway in some states to expand vaccine exemptions or limit vaccine mandates, risking outbreaks of preventable diseases. At the same time, vital programs like Vaccines for Children (VFC) face funding uncertainties, and the spread of vaccine misinformation continues to erode trust—even among well-meaning families.

What Clinicians Can Do

You don't need to be a lobbyist. Making a difference starts with your everyday role—and your voice.

Here’s where to begin:

• Tap into the AAP Advocacy Action Center for tools, talking points, and updates to help guide your vaccine advocacy. American Academy of Pediatrics

• Use the AAP’s Immunizations page for patient‑friendly materials, communication guides, and easy‑to‑use graphics to explain how vaccines work and why they're safe. American Academy of Pediatrics

• Frame vaccine conversations sensitively by using resources like the FrameWorks Institute’s “Boosting Public Discourse: Reframing Childhood Immunization” toolkit. It offers effective strategies to talk about vaccines in a way that builds trust and encourages cooperation. FrameWorks Institute

• Refer to AAP fact‑checked content when debunking myths—such as the safety of the MMR vaccine—to confidently reassure families. American Academy of Pediatrics

• Share the official AAP Immunization Schedule with parents so they know exactly when vaccines are due and why timely protection matters.

Why It Matters

Most parents trust their medical provider. We can’t afford to be silent. If we stay informed, visible, and vocal, we help keep our children—and our communities—safe.