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What Would Happen If We Didn’t Have Vaccines?

Immunizations are intended to stop diseases like the coronavirus. But there are a range of other long-term societal benefits from vaccines.

By Leslie Nemo
Jul 1, 2020 10:29 PM
Vaccine Doctor - Shutterstock
(Credit: HQuality/Shutterstock)

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SARS-CoV-2 might soon become the 26th pathogen that U.S. health officials can immunize against. And while none of us will soon forget the coronavirus pandemic, widespread vaccinations throughout time have helped the public forget the threats that other pathogens carry.

As the COVID-19 pandemic persists in the U.S., some caregivers have put off bringing children in for routine shots. There’s been a large decline in immunizations, and it’s becoming worrisome, says Angela Myers, the director of the infectious disease division at Children’s Mercy Kansas City.

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