Extra Credit: Vaccination History

 Extra Credit Assignment:

Vaccination History Article:

I wasn't too familiar with the history of vaccinations - it was not a topic that I'd given much thought to in my life until now, but reading and learning about it has been a lot more interesting than I thought. I've always thought the fundamental concept of vaccination was just exposing one to certain bacteria/viruses so they can build antigens against it when the body comes in contact with them. I never knew that the practice began in a rudimentary form with "variolation," a method used in ancient times where material from a smallpox sore was introduced into the skin of an uninfected person. 

Reflecting on the history of vaccination not only underscores the importance of scientific inquiry and innovation but also the ongoing need for public trust and global cooperation in addressing health crises. As we continue to face new and resurging infectious threats, the history of vaccination stands as a testament to what can be accomplished when science and collective will converge to protect human health.

Video 1:

This was a really fascinating video because it delved into historical facts about vaccinations - primarily around the first epidemic of smallpox - which I knew nothing about. Perhaps one of the most interesting aspects was that mandating vaccinations (variolation at the time) had been around for a long time - when George Washington wanted to preserve the lives of his troops. The skepticism that followed vaccination mandates comes to show inherent human nature as we cannot fully trust or understand things that we cannot see. Further, it was interesting that even in history people used religion as a means of retaliating against vaccines - something that is still very much prevalent today. Today, it shows that while skepticism still remains high (especially in the United States), most people have normalized vaccinations which prevent the spread of dangerous diseases - also known as herd immunity. I believe that if more people were educated on this history and success rates, people would be less skeptical and more inclined to get vaccinations. 

Video 2:

I personally am definitely not an "anti-vaxxer" and would like to take preventative measures for my health and others around me. I try not to read too much into conspiracy theories of the "government chipping us" or fear the "future side effects." The innovation of treating diphtheria - that I knew nothing about - built the foundational system of vaccines that we see today which is quite spectacular. This discovery of antitoxins was groundbreaking because it introduced the concept of using antibodies to neutralize bacterial toxins. The part about aluminum being in vaccines was interesting to me because it seemed like that was one of the stronger arguments that anti-vaxxers had about not getting vaccinated. However, if you use critical thinking and reflect on the other products we consume on a day-to-day basis, it really puts things into perspective. So perhaps the logic of the fear some people have against vaccines isn't necessarily about the product itself - but more about control and bodily autonomy. 

Video 3:

While I understand the skepticism surrounding vaccines - especially in the past when various procedures were done without governmental oversight, I do firmly believe that vaccines are necessary in keeping our population safe and healthy. This video comes to show that vaccines are one of the most powerful health interventions in medical history, significantly reducing the incidence of infectious diseases and, in some cases, leading to the eradication of diseases, such as smallpox. The development, testing, approval, and monitoring of vaccines involve rigorous processes to ensure their safety and efficacy. Thus, the data and studies show that vaccines are a safe and crucial part of public health, preventing millions of deaths each year. While no medical intervention is entirely without risk, the benefits of vaccinations overwhelmingly outweigh the risks. The continued success and safety of vaccines depend on rigorous testing, regulatory oversight, and ongoing research and monitoring.