Vaccination is an essential preventive measure that ensures protection against infections that could lead to life-threatening disease. It is a protective layer, immunizing the body to combat infection smoothly. Yet, widespread misconceptions and misinformation keep people away from getting vaccinated, putting their health at stake.
In a recent interview, Dr. Anusuya Shetty, Apollo Clinic physician in Koramangala debunked a few myths related to vaccines.
Myth 1: Vaccine causes autism
Fact: Large amounts of research demonstrate that vaccines do not lead to autism, and vaccinated kids get autism at the same rate as unvaccinated kids. Many large, well-designed studies involving over a million children found no connection between immunizations and autism. The scientific consensus is clear: vaccinations are safe and do not lead to autism.
Myth 2: Vaccines can cause disease as well
Fact: Live vaccines employ attenuated viruses or bacteria to train and build up the immune system safely. The microorganisms are not disease-causing, yet they cause the body to produce antibodies for future protection. Mild symptoms can occur, but they are typically harmless unless the person has a compromised immune system. Shedding of the virus is rare and not likely to infect others; immunisation defends those who are vulnerable.
Myth 3: The public lacks access to vaccination information
Fact: The public is able to differentiate between actual vaccine information and misinformation on the internet by assessing the information source, the date of publication, and whether the article was authored by a qualified medical practitioner.
Myth 4: Social media does not spread misinformation
Fact: Social media content about vaccines often reinforces anti-vaccine narratives, which get more views than pro-vaccine responses. Misinformation is shown by studies to spread quickly, especially in the case of outbreaks of diseases during big events, and is amplified by trolls and bots. These artificial accounts have the ability to create a false balance between pro- and anti-vaccine camps. Thus, social media can amplify misinformation and dilute effective public health communications.
Myth 5: Vaccines are unsafe
Fact: The flu vaccine can’t give you the flu because it contains a killed virus. Any side effects, like an achy arm or fatigue, are temporary and have nothing to do with the flu. The vaccine is absolutely safe and won’t produce disease.
