Broadcast date: 8/7/2014
Even though immunizations are considered by many to be one of the greatest achievements of modern times, an increasing number of parents are opting not to immunize their children against a number of deadly diseases. The 2012-2013 ACTION for Healthy Communities report finds the number of immunizations in San Luis Obispo County has generally been increasing since 2005, but it also finds a growing rate of parents opting to take personal belief exemptions for their children, almost twice that of the statewide average.
A number of infectious diseases once controlled through immunizations are beginning to re-emerge throughout the country. In California, 6,170 cases of whooping cough have been reported already this year- the state has far exceeded last year’s total number of cases of 2,531. How should we protect ourselves from these deadly diseases? What are the benefits of immunization for people of all ages? Do the potential benefits of immunization outweigh the possibility of harm? Why are so many people opting not to vaccinate, and what are health professionals doing to address this?
Host Kris Kington-Barker is joined by guests Dr. Penny Borenstein, the County Health Officer for San Luis Obispo County, and Dr. Mike McNerney with Patterson and Tedford Pediatricsand Commissioner with First 5 of San Luis Obispo County to discuss this important topic.
Central Coast Voices is sponsored by ACTION for Healthy Communities in collaboration with KCBX.
