Vaccine Myths vs. Facts: Separating Truth from Fiction

With all the information available about the safety of vaccines, it can be tough to differentiate what's true and what's not. At Mesquite Pediatrics, we get it. Dr. Nicole Abdy, Dr. Jeff Couchman, Dr. Joshua Yell, and Dr. Susan McMahon are here to help you separate fact and fiction when it comes to the effects of vaccines on your children. 

Myth: Vaccines don't work. 

Fact: Vaccines are proven to work.

 95% to almost 100% of children achieve immunity against diseases for which they receive a vaccination. Looking at the history of vaccines can make this even more clear. Between 1958 and 1962, there were more than half a million cases of measles reported, with 432 deaths. The measles vaccine was released in 1963, and measles diagnoses started a downward trend. In 2023, there were just 58 reported cases of measles in the United States, and zero deaths due to the disease.

Myth: Vaccines contain toxins that are unsafe for children. 

Fact: Trace amounts of certain elements are required for vaccine sterility.

 Fact: While vaccines do contain trace amounts of aluminum, mercury, and formaldehyde, the trace amounts found in vaccines actually make vaccines safer, as they ensure that the vaccine is sterile and able to support health effectively.  The amounts of these elements are actually less than children introduce into their systems simply by eating and drinking normal foods.

Myth: An unvaccinated child doesn't affect others. 

Fact: Successfully eradicating a disease requires a group effort.

 Some parents refuse vaccinations because certain diseases have become so rare, but vaccinations are the only reason these diseases stay under control. Recent outbreaks of conditions that were thought to be of the past—such as measles—illustrate the importance of continued vaccination.  There were only 58 cases of measles last year but already 151 cases in 2024, almost all of which happened in unvaccinated people.

Learn More About Immunizations at Mesquite Pediatrics in Tucson, AZ

 At Mesquite Pediatrics in Tucson, AZ, our team is here to meet all of your child's healthcare needs. Dr. Abdy, Dr. Couchman, Dr. Yell, and Dr. McMahon are excited to meet you and your family. Whether you have a question about immunizations, are interested in scheduling a well child visit, or have an acute concern, we're here to help. Reach out to Mesquite Pediatrics today at 520-648-5437 to learn more about our practice and schedule your child's first appointment.