America Needs to Embrace Vaccines
The state of Florida is considering eliminating mandatory vaccinations for children, an idea that is gaining traction.
Many people are too young to remember the devastating effects of certain viruses, but the author has a personal connection to the issue.
The author's Aunt Sally and her brother-in-law Bill were both polio victims, contracting the disease before the development of the vaccine in 1955 by Dr. Jonas Salk.
- Both spent their lives in wheelchairs.
- Polio has no cure and can lead to severe respiratory problems, including the inability to breathe without a ventilator.
- The disease weakens respiratory muscles, making everyday illnesses like the common cold a major concern.
Polio can’t be cured … many who contract it can’t breathe without the use of a ventilator.
The author's aunt spent two years in a body cast, highlighting the severe consequences of polio.
Author's summary: Vaccines are crucial for preventing devastating diseases.