"In 1900, infectious diseases (such as pneumonia, influenza and measles) killed about 18% of children. Before vaccines and other public health measures, 1 in 5 children did not live to see their first birthday. Compare that reality to today, when less than 1% of children die before their fifth birthday. Back then, childhood was inherently dangerous. Even if they lived, those who became infected with a virus such as measles often suffered long-term side effects such as brain damage and a permanently weakened immune system."
"The success of public health measures such as vaccines has given people a false sense of security, leading many to conclude that once-tragic diseases are no longer a threat. But it's only thanks to science that illness and death among children is no longer commonplace. Nowadays, it's easy to take our health for granted - especially with anti-vaccine conspiracy theorist Robert F. Kennedy Jr. steering the narrative at the helm of the Department of Health and Human Services."
In 1900 infectious diseases like pneumonia, influenza, and measles killed roughly 18% of children, with one in five not reaching a first birthday. Today fewer than 1% of children die before age five due to vaccines and public health measures. Childhood infections previously caused long-term harm such as brain damage and weakened immunity. Vaccine success has created a false sense of security that underestimates returning risks when coverage declines. Anti-vaccine rhetoric and leadership that amplifies denialist views increase vulnerability. Parents bear responsibility to protect all children and to uphold measures that prevent illness and death.
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