As childhood vaccination rates decline, several diseases once thought to be eradicated have returned and are spreading, most notably measles and whooping cough.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has been vocal about changing childhood vaccination recommendations, specifically calling for limits on COVID-19 and hepatitis B vaccinations. This is despite the CDC’s own data showing them to be unthreatening and effective.
Some Democratic-led states are banding together to form their own health coalitions to fight the reversal of decades-old CDC recommendations and provide clear information to their constituents. While other states, mostly Republican-led, are trying to eliminate mandatory vaccinations for children.
In Episode 7, based in Oregon Dr. Lisa Reynolds shares how her state is responding to the CDC’s confusing and polarizing information. Dr. Reynolds is also an Oregon State Senator for District 17.
Then we head to Florida, where Gov. Ron DeSantis and state Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo are pushing to eliminate vaccination requirements for public schools and daycare centers. Christine Sextona senior reporter at the Florida Phoenixwill give us the overview.
Finally, Evening wrapping Newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s seeing.
Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States, composed by David Singer.
Click Here for the full transcript.
Relevant reading from state newsrooms and partners:
- Measles cases are increasing due to holiday travel (state border)
- West Texas Mennonites, blamed for the country’s historic measles outbreak, have hardened their views on vaccines (Texas Tribune)
- CDC vaccine repeal spurs New Jersey lawmakers to act (New Jersey Monitor)
- Louisiana’s up-to-date surgeon general is a vaccine skeptic who allies with abortion opponents (Louisiana Illuminator)
- Measles spreads in waiting rooms, so call ahead instead of going in, health officials say (Utah News Dispatch)
Do you have questions? An episode idea? Send us an email at Podcast@statesnewsroom.com
This podcast is produced by States Newsrooma nonprofit news station that includes West Virginia Watch and is a 501c(3) charity supported by grants and a coalition of donors.
