I am a grandfather, a primary care physician for more than 30 years, and a national advocate for vaccination as one of the most critical—and increasingly threatened—tools we have to protect the health of people of all ages in the US.

During my training in internal medicine and pediatrics in the 1980s and early 1990s, I routinely cared for patients with vaccine-preventable diseases. I treated older adults suffering from severe, unremitting pain caused by shingles, younger adults hospitalized with pneumococcal pneumonia and sepsis, adolescents with severe staphylococcal pneumonia caused by influenza, children with Haemophilus influenzae meningitis, and countless infants and young children hospitalized with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). I saw my first case of measles in a fellow trainee in 1992.

These diseases were not theoretical—they were real, devastating, and often life-altering. Those experiences, and many others, led me to dedicate much of my career to clinical vaccinology.

Over the years, I have spent countless hours teaching colleagues in medicine, nursing, and pharmacy—as well as members of the public—about vaccines, vaccine-preventable diseases, and the critical role immunization plays in protecting individuals, families, and communities in my home state of Arkansas and across the US.

In my practice, I have also spent a great deal of time listening. Many patients and families have questions about vaccines, including concerns about safety and whether vaccination is truly necessary for them or their loved ones. In most cases, these questions led to thoughtful, respectful conversations about why I recommend vaccination.  More often than not, patients ultimately chose to get vaccinated—sometimes during that first visit, sometimes later. It was rare that we could not agree that we shared the same goal: doing what was best for the patient.

My patients, colleagues, and I weathered the COVID-19 pandemic. The first year—before vaccines were available—was an extraordinarily difficult time. The period when vaccines were available but access was limited was also deeply challenging. Even after we returned to more normal operations, questions about COVID, COVID vaccination, and long COVID remained common. Patients and healthcare teams were exhausted, and conversations about vaccines became more challenging in the context of that fatigue. Still, most discussions remained grounded in mutual respect.

Today, however, the environment has changed. The challenges we face extend beyond pandemic exhaustion.

In recent months, significant disruptions across the Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and National Institutes of Health have gutted support for critically important public health programs and scientific research. This includes setbacks to the development of mRNA vaccines—a major scientific breakthrough that has the potential to protect lives in the face of emerging threats such as bird flu, should it become transmissible between people. Undermining this research puts our future preparedness at risk.

At the same time, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP)—long composed of independent external experts and supported by dedicated CDC staff and medical specialty liaisons—no longer functions as the trusted, evidence-based body it was for decades. For generations of clinicians, ACIP served as the primary source of rigorous, transparent vaccine recommendations to guide patient care and protect public health. That clarity and confidence have eroded. Compounding this uncertainty, public statements casting doubt on FDA-approved vaccines have, at times, conflicted with the conclusions of the scientific experts who conducted the underlying analyses.

I see the consequences of this confusion every day. Many people are afraid they will not be able to access life-saving vaccines for their children, partners, or parents. Others worry they will not be able to afford vaccines even if they are available. Some cannot reconcile the conflicting and often misleading sources of information and delay vaccination out of fear of making the “wrong” decision for their loved ones. Still others are angry, believing they were misled about vaccine safety and effectiveness by influencers or other individuals in positions of power. I hear these concerns every day in my own practice and from my colleagues across the country.

My message is the same today and will be the same tomorrow: First, do no harm.

I will continue to review the evidence, trust the science, and make the best decisions I can to protect and improve the health of those I serve. I will continue to teach this science and to advocate for these principles to those whom I have the privilege to teach or encourage.

Vaccines have saved millions of lives and prevented billions of dollars in healthcare costs in the US during my lifetime. They have allowed generations of children to grow up without fear of diseases that once filled hospital wards and claimed lives.

I have a new grandson, born just over a month ago, and I want him to enjoy the benefits of a life without chickenpox, shingles, mumps, severe influenza, polio, severe RSV, rotavirus, tetanus, and other diseases we can prevent or minimize with vaccines. Protecting that future requires a continued commitment to evidence, transparency, and trust. We must move forward to a healthier country—not backward to a time marked by thousands of cases of measles, whooping cough, or polio.

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases:

• Like and follow NFID on social media
• Listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast
• Subscribe to receive future NFID Updates

January 7, 2026

The Honorable Jim O’Neill
Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Services / Acting CDC Director
Office of the Deputy Secretary
US Department of Health and Human Services
200 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20201 USA

The Honorable Brian Christine, MD
Assistant Secretary for Health
US Department of Health and Human Services
Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health
200 Independence Avenue SW
Washington, DC 20201

Dear Deputy Secretary O’Neill and Admiral Christine,

We, the undersigned, appreciate the responsibility of federal health leadership in navigating complex and evolving public health challenges, and we write to share our perspective on recent decisions related to childhood immunization policy.

Comparisons between the US childhood immunization schedule and those of other countries, including Denmark, risk overlooking fundamental differences in population size, diversity, healthcare access, and infectious disease burden. These differences matter. US immunization policy must be guided by a transparent, evidence-based process and grounded in US epidemiology and real-world risk.

In the midst of a potentially severe respiratory season, it would be ill-advised to make changes that are not supported by clear evidence. Last influenza (flu) season, 289 US children died from influenza—the highest number in more than a decade. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) remains the leading cause of hospitalization among US infants.

Based on the best available scientific evidence, we strongly urge continued recommendation of annual influenza vaccination for everyone age 6 months and older, as well as protection against RSV for all infants whose mothers did not receive an RSV vaccine during pregnancy.

Adopting an immunization schedule designed for another country—without accounting for the distinct epidemiology and risk profile of the United States—could place US children at increased risk for serious, preventable diseases.

We call on federal public health leaders to reaffirm their commitment to a transparent, evidence-based immunization policy process and to ensure that US childhood vaccination recommendations remain grounded in US data, expert consensus, and rigorous scientific review.

Reducing the number of recommended vaccines increases, rather than decreases, the risk of disease and death among children. Protecting children from preventable infectious diseases must remain the central priority.

We appreciate your consideration and our shared responsibility to protect children’s health through transparent, evidence-based decision-making.

Sincerely,

Alliance for Aging Research  

American Academy of Pediatrics, Alaska Chapter 

American Academy of Pediatrics, Utah Chapter 

American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists 

American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians 

American Families for Vaccines 

American Institute of Biological Sciences 

American Medical Association 

American Medical Group Association (AMGA) 

American Pharmacists Association 

American Society for Meningitis Prevention 

American Society for Microbiology 

Arkansas Immunization Action Coalition (Immunize Arkansas) 

Association for Professionals in Infection Control & Epidemiology (APIC) 

Boost Oregon 

California Immunization Coalition 

Dane County Immunization Coalition 

Delaware Academy of Medicine and Public Health 

Emily Stillman Foundation 

Emily’s Dash Foundation 

EverThrive Illinois 

Families Fighting Flu 

Gerontological Society of America 

Guardians of Youth  

Hartford County Medical Association 

Helping Hands Foundation 

Hepatitis B Foundation  

Idaho Immunization Coalition 

Illinois Public Health Association 

Immunization Coalition of Delaware 

Immunize Colorado 

Immunize Kansas Coalition 

Immunize Oregon 

Immunize Wisconsin 

Indiana Immunization Coalition 

Infectious Diseases Society of America 

Johnson County Public Health  

Kimberly Coffey Foundation 

Louisiana Families for Vaccines 

Massachusetts Families for Vaccines 

Meningitis Research Foundation and Confederation of Meningitis Organisations 

Minnesota Public Health Association 

Mississippi Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics 

Montana Families for Vaccines 

National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners 

National Foundation for Infectious Diseases 

National Kidney Foundation 

National Minority Quality Forum 

Nebraska Immunization Task Force.  

New Mexico Immunization Coalition 

NMAC 

North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition 

Northern Utah Immunization Coalition 

Nurses Who Vaccinate  

Okanogan County Public Health District 

Oklahoma Alliance for Healthy Families 

Ryan Martin Foundation  

Snohomish County Health Department 

Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA) 

Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department 

Tennessee Families for Vaccines 

The Arizona Partnership for Immunization 

The Immunization Partnership  

The JAMIE Group 

The Joshua Chamberlain Project 

The PAMAH Foundation 

The Task Force for Global Health 

Vaccinate Your Family 

Voices for Vaccines 

Washington State Association of Local Public Health Officials 

Washington State Public Health Association 

Wisconsin Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics 

The following organizations signed onto the letter after January 7:

American Academy of Family Physicians

American Academy of Physician Associates

American Psychological Association Services

Arizona Families for Vaccines

Center for Patient Advocacy Leaders (CPALs)

Children’s Health Committee, Physicians for Human Rights Student Advisory Board

Coalition for Global Hepatitis Elimination

Doctors for America

Health Students Taking Action Together (H-STAT)

Health Watch USA

Immunization Alliance of Michigan

Immunization Coalition of Los Angeles County

ImmunizeVA

Institute for Public Health Innovation

Franklin County Health Department (Indiana)

Maryland Academy of Family Physicians

National Hispanic Health Foundation

New Hampshire Families for Vaccines

New Mexico Academy of Family Physicians

Oregon Families for Vaccines

Partnership to Fight Infectious Disease

Pulse Check Wisconsin

The Dylan McNeil Foundation

Tigerlily Foundation

Unity Consortium

Vaccine Education Center at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia

About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases

Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. NFID has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum transparency seal from Candid/GuideStar. For more information, and to access trusted science-based resources on immunization for both healthcare professionals and the public, visit www.nfid.org.

Contact: communications@nfid.org

• Evidence-Based Immunization Policies and Practices
• NFID Partner Updates
• Resources (webinars, podcasts, blogs)
• Leaders in the News
• And More …

Message from Headquarters

As we close out this year and look ahead, I want to share why I’m proud of NFID’s work and what we are focused on going forward. Our mission is straightforward: to help people access accurate, science-based information about infectious diseases so they can make informed decisions for themselves, their families, and their communities. In today’s environment, that mission feels more important than ever.

We are living through a moment when misinformation spreads quickly and confidence in vaccines is under pressure. NFID’s role is to serve as a trusted convener and translator of science—bringing experts together, supporting healthcare professionals and the public with evidence-based education, and cutting through the noise with practical information people can use. Here’s how that role has shown up in our work over the past several months.

Vaccines during Pregnancy: Protecting Maternal and Infant Health

Experts from NFID, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the National Coalition for Infant Health review vaccines commonly recommended during pregnancy and the importance of maternal and neonatal immunization.

2025-2026 US Respiratory Season Updates

NFID brought together healthcare professionals representing medicine, nursing, and pharmacy to review the importance of vaccines to protect against severe illness and provide strategies to increase immunization rates for COVID-19, influenza (flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and pneumococcal disease.

Communication Strategies to Build Trust and Address Misinformation

In partnership with the Coalition for Trust in Health & Science, NFID hosted a discussion on the importance of effective communication strategies in building trust and addressing misinformation about vaccine-preventable diseases.

Improving US Adult Vaccination Rates

Experts from NFID and AMGA’s Rise to Immunize® (RIZE) campaign discuss the challenges and barriers for adult immunization (including access and cost), and review strategies to improve adult vaccination rates in the US.

Ensuring Equitable Access to Vaccines

Ensuring equitable access to vaccines is not a simple matter. This webinar addressed the coverage disparities that impact vaccination rates in the United States and how to reduce those barriers, with perspectives from the National Minority Quality Forum and other leading voices.

Looking for webinars on other topics? Visit www.nfid.org/webinars to register for live and on-demand programs.

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases:

• Like and follow NFID on social media
• Listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast
• Subscribe to receive future NFID Updates

In oral and written comments submitted to ACIP, NFID strongly supported maintaining the current hepatitis B vaccination schedule, including the birth dose and broad adult vaccination.

NFID joined the American Academy of Pediatrics and more than 40 other leading organizations in noting, “The evidence remains clear: the hepatitis B birth dose is safe and an essential component in helping children develop immunity against a serious, potentially lifelong disease. In fact, since the US implemented the hepatitis B birth dose in 1991, annual hepatitis B infections among infants and children have dropped 99%, from 16,000 to less than 20. This progress is directly attributable to timely vaccination.”

Previously, in response to the recent CDC webpage linking vaccines and autism, NFID led a joint letter signed by more than 50 organizations to the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee urging that the webpage be updated to accurately reflect the current scientific consensus that there is no causal relationship between vaccines and autism and asking the HELP committee, in its oversight role, to ensure CDC and other federal science agencies uphold their critically important evidence-based communication practices.

About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases

Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. NFID has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum transparency seal from Candid/GuideStar. For more information, and to access trusted science-based resources on immunization for both healthcare professionals and the public, visit www.nfid.org.

Contact: communications@nfid.org

Bethesda, MD (December 3, 2025) — As respiratory viruses surge during the holiday season, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is sounding the alarm: vaccination rates are declining, and misconceptions persist. At a news briefing today, experts unveiled new survey findings that reveal gaps in vaccine uptake and trust among US adults – underscoring the urgent need for clear guidance and action to increase vaccinations for influenza (flu), COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and pneumococcal disease.

According to the NFID survey, among adults who have not received a flu vaccine this respiratory season, 16% expressed safety concerns about vaccine side effects, while 13% said they “never get sick.” Similar patterns emerged for COVID-19, with 20% citing worries about side effects and 12% saying no healthcare professional has recommended vaccination. For both flu and COVID-19, 12% of unvaccinated adults stated that vaccines don’t work very well and 12% are concerned about getting sick from vaccines.

These misunderstandings about vaccine safety and effectiveness come at a time when flu, RSV, and COVID-19 continue to cause tens of thousands of hospitalizations and deaths in the US every year, often among those who are unvaccinated, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions. NFID experts emphasized that vaccines remain the most effective tool to prevent severe illness and save lives – noting that serious complications from respiratory diseases can occur in anyone, even young, healthy individuals.

“Given how serious these diseases can be and how effective vaccines are at protecting against the worst outcomes, it’s disappointing to see misconceptions persist,” said Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD, NFID medical director. “I am confident enough in these vaccines that I have been vaccinated, as have all my family members. I encourage others to be immunized so they have the same protection I give to my family and to my patients.”

Recent data from IQVIA reinforce the NFID survey results, showing a year-over-year decline in vaccination rates. Vaccination rates from retail pharmacies have dropped since 2024, with a 27% decrease in COVID-19 vaccinations, 6% decrease in flu vaccinations, and 34% decrease in RSV vaccinations.

The NFID survey data also reveals generational divides in vaccine uptake and trust, with younger generations increasingly turning to social media as a trusted source for respiratory vaccine information. When asked who they trust the most for accurate information about vaccines for flu, COVID-19, RSV, or pneumococcal disease, the top source cited by 44% of US adults was their doctor, nurse, or pharmacist. Among Gen Z adults (defined as age 18-28 years), social media is the second-most trusted source for vaccine information, a concerning trend given the proliferation of vaccine misinformation online.

“Access to up-to-date and fact-based information around vaccines is one of the keys to bridging the gap between scientific knowledge and life-saving action,” said Tom Frieden, MD, MPH, founder and CEO of Resolve to Save Lives.

“We must remain rooted in science, which proves vaccines are the most effective tool to protect against COVID-19, RSV, influenza, and pneumococcal disease,” said Peter J. Hotez, MD, PhD, dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine.

Although most US adults report that they are able to access vaccines in their area, nearly half (44%) do not feel that current guidance on which respiratory vaccines to receive this season is clear.

To help combat confusion, NFID is urging healthcare professionals and the public to rely on trusted sources and follow evidence-based recommendations for the 2025–2026 respiratory season:

• Annual flu vaccination for everyone age 6 months and older
• COVID-19 vaccination for those at high risk (including young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions), and anyone age 6 months and older who wants to be vaccinated against COVID-19
• RSV vaccination for pregnant women or RSV immunization (monoclonal antibody) for infants whose mothers did not receive an RSV vaccine during pregnancy; RSV vaccination for certain adults age 50-74 and all adults age 75 and older
• Pneumococcal vaccination for children younger than age 5 years, all adults age 50 years and older, and people with certain chronic health conditions or other risk factors

“Vaccines save lives, yet trust and vaccination rates are declining year-over-year. Progress happens when we take the time to understand how communities are thinking about vaccines and to provide them with the information they need to make healthy choices for them and their families. With genuine compassion and clear information, healthy practices become something people choose—not something imposed,” said Rochelle Walensky, MD, MPH, professor at Harvard University and co-founder and chief medical advisor for the Vaccine Integrity Project, which has compiled a detailed review of the evidence on respiratory vaccine safety and effectiveness.

The erosion of trust is reflected in vaccination patterns, which vary across political affiliation. The NFID survey found that Democrats (34%) are more likely than Republicans (20%) or Independents (19%) to have received an updated COVID-19 vaccine, and Democrats (41%) and Republicans (35%) are more likely than Independents (22%) to have received a flu vaccine this respiratory season. “The politicization of vaccination hurts everyone, because the viruses don’t care who you voted for,” said Hopkins.

Additional information about the NFID survey research and resources to help patients and healthcare professionals navigate this complex respiratory season are available at www.nfid.org/2025FluNews.

About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases

Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. NFID has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum transparency seal from Candid/GuideStar. For more information, and to access trusted science-based resources on immunization for both healthcare professionals and the public, visit www.nfid.org.

This news briefing series is sponsored by NFID in collaboration with professional societies and patient advocacy partners, and unrestricted educational grants from AstraZeneca, Sanofi Pasteur Inc., and Seqirus USA Inc. NFID policies prohibit funders from controlling program content.

About the NFID Survey Methodology

The NFID survey was conducted online by Big Village from November 10-12, 2025, among a nationally representative sample of 1,015 US adults age 18 and older. Respondents were selected from a pool of volunteers for online surveys, and the data were weighted by age, sex, geographic region, race, and education to accurately reflect the US adult population based on Census data. Each respondent received a single weighting factor to ensure demographic representation, and both weighted and unweighted results are reported. As with all sample surveys, results may be subject to various sources of error, including sampling, coverage, nonresponse, and post-survey adjustments.

About the IQVIA Data

IQVIA’s National Prescription Audit (NPA) provides comprehensive insights into U.S. prescription activity across retail, mail service, and long-term care channels. It captures outpatient retail prescription transactions, projecting to represent the full universe of prescription demand. This data does not include all vaccination data, including any vaccination data from hospitals, clinics, providers or other non-retail locations.

Media Contact: NFID@apcoworldwide.com

View Resources

ARLINGTON, VA, BETHESDA, MD, CHICAGO, IL and DALLAS, TX — (December 1, 2025) — To kick off National Influenza Vaccination Week (December 1 – 6, 2025), the American Heart Association® (AHA), American Lung Association (ALA), American Diabetes Association® (ADA), and National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) are urging everyone 6 months and older to get an annual influenza (flu) vaccine.

This year’s flu season follows a particularly difficult flu season. The 2024–2025 flu season was classified by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as a high severity season across all age groups, with the highest flu hospitalization rate since the 2010-2011 season. Last year’s flu season data revealed that 94.1% of adults and 53.5% of children and adolescents hospitalized with flu had at least one underlying medical condition. This underscores the need for those who are at a higher risk for severe complications to get vaccinated against flu each year, including:

• Adults age 65 years and older
• Pregnant individuals
• Individuals with chronic health conditions, including asthma, COPD, heart disease, diabetes and kidney disease

“While flu can be risky for anyone, people with diabetes are at higher risk for developing serious complications from the flu. The American Diabetes Association recommends that everyone eligible living with diabetes get a flu vaccine. Getting vaccinated can help reduce the risk of getting the flu and related complications—for both you and your loved ones,” said Rita Kalyani, MD, MHS, chief scientific and medical officer at the ADA.

“Flu vaccination is more than personal protection—it’s protecting loved ones and a commitment to community health. Every flu shot helps prevent severe illness, hospitalizations, and even death, especially among older adults and those with chronic conditions. Getting your flu vaccine is a simple step that delivers a powerful impact: safeguarding your health and the health of those around you,” said Eduardo Sanchez, MD, MPH, FAHA, chief medical officer for prevention, American Heart Association.

“Influenza is a respiratory illness, so people with lung diseases like asthma, COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary hypertension, and other lung diseases are at a significantly higher risk for severe illness, complications, and hospitalization. The flu can also worsen existing chronic lung disease symptoms. In addition to people living with lung disease, their family members should also get vaccinated to help protect their loved ones,” said Harold Wimmer, president and CEO of the American Lung Association. “This holiday season, give yourself, your family, and your community a gift of health by getting your annual flu shot, and talk to your healthcare provider about other critical respiratory virus vaccinations that are recommended for you.”

“Vaccination saves lives, and it’s on all of us to take action,” said NFID Medical Director Robert H. Hopkins Jr., MD. “For people with chronic conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, or diabetes, getting an annual flu vaccine is just as essential as eating well, exercising, and taking prescribed medications.” Even in years when the flu vaccine is not a perfect match, Dr. Hopkins says, it still helps prevent serious illness and hospitalizations. “The primary goal of flu vaccination is to reduce your likelihood of severe influenza. Vaccines don’t offer 100 percent protection, but not getting vaccinated leaves you with zero protection,” he says.

December is not too late to get vaccinated. “As long as flu viruses are circulating, getting a flu vaccine can help protect you and those around you from serious illness—protection that matters even more during the busy holiday season.” For anyone with questions about flu vaccines, Hopkins encourages talking with a trusted healthcare professional.

The American Heart Association, the American Lung Association, the American Diabetes Association and the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases all offer educational resources on their websites about the burden of flu and the importance of vaccination for people with chronic health conditions.

About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases

Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. The NFID “It’s On Us” campaign calls on everyone to take action to help protect yourself and your community from severe respiratory illness: get vaccinated, follow simple healthy habits (wash hands often, stay home when sick, cover coughs and sneezes, and consider wearing a mask if you or someone at home is at higher risk), and get treated quickly with prescription medication when advised by a healthcare professional. NFID has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum transparency seal from Candid/GuideStar. For more information, visit www.nfid.org and https://es.nfid.org/ (in Spanish).

About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

About the American Lung Association

The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy, and research. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to champion clean air for all; to improve the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families; and to create a tobacco-free future. For more information about the American Lung Association, which has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and is a Platinum-Level GuideStar Member, or to support the work it does, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org.

About the American Diabetes Association

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) is the nation’s leading voluntary health organization fighting to end diabetes and helping people thrive. This year, the ADA celebrates 85 years of driving discovery and research to prevent, manage, treat, and ultimately cure diabetes—and we’re not stopping. There are 136 million Americans living with diabetes or prediabetes. Through advocacy, program development, and education, we’re fighting for them all. To learn more or to get involved, visit us at diabetes.org or call 1-800-DIABETES (800-342-2383). Join us in the fight on Facebook (American Diabetes Association), Spanish Facebook (Asociación Americana de la Diabetes), LinkedIn (American Diabetes Association), and Instagram (@AmDiabetesAssn). To learn more about how we are advocating for everyone affected by diabetes, visit us on X (@AmDiabetesAssn).

Contact: Diana Olson (NFID), dolson@nfid.org

Julia Kersey (AHA): Julia.Kersey@heart.org

Jill Dale (ALA): Jill.Dale@lung.org

Virgina Cramer (ADA): press@diabetes.org

November 26, 2025

The Honorable Bill Cassidy
Chair
Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions
United States Senate
Washington, DC 20510

The Honorable Bernie Sanders
Ranking Member
Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions
United States Senate
Washington, DC 20510

Dear Chairman Cassidy and Ranking Member Sanders,

We, the undersigned organizations, are deeply concerned by recent federal public health communications that conflict with the scientific consensus that vaccines do not cause autism spectrum disorder, particularly when such information guides decisions affecting the health of families and communities. 

On November 19, 2025, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website was updated to include a post suggesting a possible link between vaccines and autism. In the days since, leading US scientific and medical institutions—as well as international bodies such as the European Medicines Agency—have reiterated the well-established evidence that there is no credible causal relationship between vaccines and autism. Despite this, the webpage remains publicly available. 

The posting of information on a federal public health website that contradicts established, evidence-based scientific consensus is alarming. At a moment when vaccine-preventable diseases including measles are resurging and the US is entering what may be a severe respiratory season, with public confidence already fragile, statements like this will have real and harmful consequences for public health.

This moment highlights the importance of clear, accurate, and evidence-based public communications from federal health agencies. Strong internal scientific review processes are critical to maintaining public trust—especially for parents and caregivers making decisions about their children’s health. CDC’s public guidance, including website content, should be informed and led by professionals with relevant scientific and medical expertise.

For decades, CDC has served as the nation’s leading source of public health guidance, supported by dedicated career scientists and public health professionals whose work has been essential to the health of families and communities. With respect for CDC’s long-standing mission, we urge that this webpage be updated to accurately reflect the current scientific consensus that there is no causal relationship between vaccines and autism. 

We also ask the US Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP), in its oversight role, to ensure CDC and other federal science agencies uphold their critically important evidence-based communication practices.

We remain committed to supporting CDC in its mission to ensure that federal public health guidance remains clear and grounded in science, and we thank you for your leadership and service.

Sincerely,

Alliance for Aging Research

American Academy of Neurology

American Association of Immunologists

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

American College of Nurse-Midwives

American College of Preventive Medicine

American Families for Vaccines

American Geriatrics Society

American Institute of Biological Sciences

American Lung Association

American Pharmacists Association

American Society for Microbiology

American Society Meningitis Prevention

American Society of Health-System Pharmacists

American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene

Arkansas Immunization Action Coalition (Immunize Arkansas)

ASCPT

Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC)

Big Cities Health Coalition

California Immunization Coalition

ColoVAX

Families Fighting Flu

Gerontological Society of America

Harris County Public Health

Idaho Immunization Coalition

Illinois Public Health Association

Immunization Coalition of Delaware

Immunize Colorado

Immunize Kansas Coalition

Immunize Oregon

Infectious Diseases Society of America

Langlade Co Immunization Coalition

Louisiana Families for Vaccines

Mississippi Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics

Mississippi Immunization Coalition

Montana Families for Vaccines

National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners

National Foundation for Infectious Diseases

National Viral Hepatitis Roundtable (NVHR)

Nurses Who Vaccinate

Oklahoma Alliance for Healthy Families

Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society

Pennsylvania Immunization Coalition

Population Association of America

Research!America

Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA)

Society of Infectious Diseases Pharmacists (SIDP)

South Dakota Families for Vaccines

Tennessee Families for Vaccines

The Arizona Partnership for Immunization

The Immunization Partnership

The JAMIE Group

The Society for Research in Child Development (SRCD)

The Task Force for Global Health

Trust for America’s Health

Vaccinate Your Family

Vaccine Ambassadors

Vaccine Education Center at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia

Voices for Vaccines

The following organizations signed onto the letter after November 26:

Adams County Health Department

Association of Population Centers

GE2P2 Global Foundation – Center for Vaccine Ethics & Policy

National Consumers League

The AIDS Institute

About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases

Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. NFID has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum transparency seal from Candid/GuideStar. For more information, and to access trusted science-based resources on immunization for both healthcare professionals and the public, visit www.nfid.org.

Contact: info@nfid.org

The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) has compiled resources from NFID and partner organizations that can be used during NIVW and throughout the season to help raise awareness about the importance of flu prevention and treatment:

Wild to Mild

Flu vaccination is the best defense against the worst symptoms of flu. NFID is proud to offer the popular Wild to Mild sharable graphics and animations (in English and Spanish) to encourage everyone age 6 months and older to get an annual flu vaccine, especially pregnant women, young children, and others at higher risk. The more people vaccinated against flu, the more people are protected from flu.

Antivirals Can Help You Feel Better Faster

Even with immunization, breakthrough infections can occur—and that’s where antiviral medications can play an essential role. Share these graphics and videos on your social media channels to help raise awareness about the importance of treating flu with antivirals.

The Flu Is Serious

Are you that person? The one who goes out in public with flu? These animated videos (in English and Spanish) focus on flu symptoms and the importance of prevention and timely treatment, reminding viewers to get an annual flu vaccine and stay home when sick to help protect themselves and those around them.

#GiftOfHealth Holiday Memes

Share these NFID holiday memes (in English and Spanish) and sample social media posts to encourage followers to share holiday cheer, not flu, during the holidays.

Flu and Chronic Health Conditions

Flu is not a game, especially for those with chronic health conditions—including heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, and kidney disease—which put them at higher risk of serious flu-related complications. Share these NFID videos to help spread awareness, not disease!

Partner Resources

The American Lung Association’s #FightFlu social media toolkit provides sample social media posts, graphics, and hashtags to raise awareness about flu and the benefits of vaccination during NIVW and throughout respiratory season.

Families Fighting Flu is turning NIVW into National Influenza Vaccination WEEKS (NIVWs). Join them in spreading the message on the importance of flu vaccination during the first 2 weeks of December. Download their social media graphics, add your organization’s logo, and share throughout NIVWs! And check out their Kaden Blaze resources, inspired by the true story of a courageous boy who survived a serious flu infection. 

Immunize.org offers an influenza toolkit with clinical resources for healthcare professionals and educational materials for vaccine recipients to remind everyone that getting an annual flu vaccine is a critical step toward protecting your health this winter.

Winter is coming. The Vaccinate Your Family #RootedInProtection Campaign toolkit offers easily sharable information to answer questions about flu and other respiratory viruses that spread this time of year.

We The People Vax offers tools and resources to raise awareness about the patriotism of vaccination. Download their winter holidays social media campaign to remind everyone to vaccinate before you celebrate!

Leading By Example

Now more than ever, it is vital that the public health community speaks with ‘one strong voice’ on the importance of infectious disease prevention. Organizations can join the NFID Leading By Example initiative, and individuals can download #FightFlu paddles and share photos/videos on social media to encourage everyone age 6 months or older to get an annual flu vaccine.

Know of other valuable tools and resources focused on raising awareness about the importance of annual flu vaccination? Share updates so we can help spread the word …

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases:

• Like and follow NFID on social media using the hashtags #NIVW, #GetVaccinated, and #FightFlu
• Listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast
• Subscribe to receive future NFID Updates

The potential association between vaccines and autism—and between aluminum adjuvants and autism—has been extensively examined through high-quality epidemiologic studies involving millions of children across diverse populations. Numerous independent reviews, including those conducted by CDC itself, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the World Health Organization, have all reached the same conclusion: There is no credible evidence that vaccines cause autism.

What the public should know:

• Vaccines remain safe, effective, and rigorously monitored.
• Extensive research has ruled out any causal link between vaccines and autism.
• Parents and caregivers should continue to follow evidence-based immunization schedules, which protect children, adolescents, and adults from serious and potentially life-threatening diseases.
• Individuals seeking accurate information should talk with a trusted healthcare professional.

About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases

Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. NFID has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum transparency seal from Candid/GuideStar. For more information, and to access trusted science-based resources on immunization for both healthcare professionals and the public, visit www.nfid.org.

Contact: Diana Olson, communications@nfid.org

Here are tips to help you stay healthy during respiratory season:

Get Vaccinated

Everyone age 6 months and older should get an annual flu vaccine. Talk with a healthcare professional about whether you need an updated COVID-19 vaccine every year. Ask a healthcare professional if you also need RSV or pneumococcal vaccines, especially if you are pregnant, age 50 years or older, or have a chronic health condition like heart disease or asthma.

Practice Healthy Habits

• Wash Your Hands: Clean hands help stop the spread of germs. Use soap and water or, if not available, hand sanitizer that is at least 60% alcohol.
• Cover Coughs and Sneezes: Use a tissue or your elbow to cover your mouth and nose.
• Stay Home if You Are Sick: If you feel sick, stay home to protect others.

Know the Symptoms

Many respiratory illnesses have common symptoms including fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, and tiredness. Identifying illnesses early helps ensure you receive the right treatment to feel better faster and prevent serious complications. If you have symptoms, contact a healthcare professional as soon as possible to determine whether testing or treatment is appropriate.

Ask about Antivirals to Feel Better Faster

Even with immunization, breakthrough infections can occur—and that’s where antiviral medications can play an essential role. Specific antivirals for flu or COVID-19 work best when started within 48 hours of the first symptoms, but may still help if started later. Antivirals are available by prescription only—you cannot buy them over the counter, so call a healthcare professional at the first sign of symptoms.

Antivirals can help:

• Reduce the severity and duration of illness
• Lower the risk of related complications (such as pneumonia or hospitalization)
• Protect vulnerable populations—including older adults, young children, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions

Stay Informed

Follow trusted sources like NFID for the latest immunization guidance, including respiratory disease prevention and treatment strategies. 

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases:

• Like and follow NFID on social media 
• Listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast
• Subscribe to receive future NFID Updates

• Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Humanitarian Award to Anne E. Goldfeld, MD, of Harvard Medical School, Boston Children’s Hospital, and the Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health
• Maxwell Finland Award for Scientific Achievement to Rino Rappuoli, PhD, of the Fondazione Biotecnopolo di Siena
• John P. Utz Leadership Award to Patricia N. Whitley-Williams, MD, who recently retired from Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School

In recognition of her groundbreaking work as a visionary physician-scientist and humanitarian whose contributions have helped change the course of TB and HIV/AIDS, NFID honored Anne E. Goldfeld, MD. Her fusion of scientific discovery, clinical care, and humanitarian action has driven breakthroughs in treatment and expanded access to lifesaving care. A visionary leader at the intersection of science and service, in parallel with her work as a physician-scientist at Harvard Medical School, Goldfeld co-founded transformative treatment and research programs in Cambodia for TB, drug-resistant TB, and HIV—and later for drug-resistant TB in Ethiopia—bringing care to some of the world’s most underserved populations. Applying her scientific expertise to TB and HIV, her work has provided a new understanding behind the immune response to TB and TB/HIV co-infection and changed global treatment guidelines for HIV/TB treatment, which is estimated to have saved more than 150,000 lives annually over the last 14 years.

Anne Goldfeld is a brilliant and creative physician-scientist, visionary, and a true humanitarian who has made a profound impact on global public health.

-Gail H. Cassell, PhD (Nominator)

Rino Rappuoli, PhD, was honored for his remarkable accomplishments as an innovator, scientist, and a leader in the field of microbial pathogenesis and vaccine development. Over the past 40 years, Rappuoli has led major breakthroughs that have transformed how vaccines are developed. His work includes developing revolutionary technologies to help develop safer and more effective vaccines for diseases including Hib disease (Haemophilus influenzae type b), influenza (flu), pneumococcal disease, and whooping cough (pertussis). He pioneered a new method called reverse vaccinology, which uses genetic information to design vaccines, and led to the first successful vaccine against meningococcus B, which can cause meningitis and other dangerous infections. A visionary leader whose innovations have saved millions of lives, he continues to advance vaccines for emerging threats and underserved populations worldwide.

Rino Rappuoli’s scientific achievements have saved millions of lives and continue to shape the future of global public health.

-Steven Black, MD (Nominator)

Patricia N. Whitley-Williams, MD, was recognized for her longstanding service to NFID and her unwavering commitment to advancing health equity and community engagement. A nationally respected pediatric infectious disease expert, Whitley-Williams has served NFID in numerous leadership roles, including as past president. An active member of the Pediatric Section and the Vaccine Advisory Committee of the National Medical Association, she has been an advocate for updating physicians from communities of color and promoting immunizations in marginalized communities. As a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., a public service organization, she is engaged in community outreach. Beginning her career when pediatric HIV was first discovered, her work has spanned from pre-antiretrovirals to prevention of mother-to-child transmission to HIV prevention. She has mentored many pediatricians, residents, and medical students. Board-certified in pediatrics and pediatric infectious diseases, she is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Throughout her career, Pat Whitley-Williams has shown an unwavering commitment to advancing health equity and community engagement.

Patricia (Patsy) A. Stinchfield, RN, MS, CPNP (Nominator)

Celebrate Public Health Heroes and Support NFID

Honor the awardees and help support the mission of NFID via an online donation. All donations directly contribute to the NFID mission to educate and engage the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. Every gift makes a difference!

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases:

• Like and follow NFID on social media using the hashtag #NFIDAwards
• Listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast
• Subscribe to receive future NFID Updates

American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP): AAFP provides immunization schedules based on age to prevent serious diseases, with specific recommendations for children from birth through age 18 years, and separate schedules for adults based on age and medical conditions.

American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP): AAP has published an independent evidence-based immunization schedule for children and adolescents. The AAP schedule includes guidance on COVID-19 vaccination that differs from current federal policy. It also includes updates to recommendations on respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza (flu):

• COVID-19–recommended for all children ages 6-23 months and for older children in certain risk groups, based on evidence on who can benefit the most from the vaccine
• Flu–recommends annual flu vaccination for all children starting at age 6 months, unless they have a medical reason not to be immunized
• RSV-recommends RSV vaccine during pregnancy or RSV immunization (nirsevimab or clesrovimab) for infants whose mothers were not vaccinated during pregnancy

“AAP will continue to provide recommendations for immunizations that are rooted in science and are in the best interest of the health of infants, children, and adolescents,” said AAP President Susan J. Kressly, MD. “Pediatricians know how important routine childhood immunizations are in keeping children, families, and their communities healthy and thriving.”

American College of Cardiology (ACC): ACC has issued Concise Clinical Guidance (CCG) recommending certain vaccines to help protect heart health. The guidance includes detailed evidence for each vaccine recommendation and answers to frequently asked questions to guide conversations between patients and healthcare professionals. Vaccine specific recommendations include:

• COVID-19–recommended for adults with heart disease to help reduce their risk of infection and protect against severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Vaccination helps protect against heart attack, COVID-19-induced pericarditis/myocarditis, COVID-19-induced stroke and atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat), and long COVID symptoms.
• Flu–recommends annual flu vaccine for all adults to help prevent flu and lower the risk of serious complications and death. Nasal versions of the vaccine are not recommended in patients age 50 years or older.
• Pneumococcal Disease–recommended for adults age 19 years or older with heart disease to help protect against pneumonia, bacteremia, and meningitis and reduce the risk of hospitalization and death
• RSV–single dose recommended for adults age 75 or older and for adults age 50–74 with heart disease to help protect against lower respiratory disease that can result in hospitalization and death
• Shingles–recommended for adults age 50 or older to receive 2 doses to protect against increased risk of stroke and heart attack when infected. People with heart disease are at an increased risk of shingles infection.

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG): ACOG released updated clinical guidance regarding vaccination during pregnancy against COVID-19, flu, and RSV. The 3 guidance documents, all of which recommend maternal immunization, lay out the full body of current scientific evidence that underscores the safety and benefits of choosing to be vaccinated against these respiratory conditions during pregnancy.

• COVID-19–COVID-19 Vaccination Considerations for Obstetric–Gynecologic Care recommends that patients receive an updated COVID-19 vaccine at any point during pregnancy, when planning to become pregnant, in the postpartum period, or when breastfeeding.
• Flu–Influenza in Pregnancy: Prevention and Treatment strongly recommends that all individuals who are or will be pregnant during flu season receive an inactivated or recombinant flu vaccine as soon as it is available, during any trimester of pregnancy. ACOG recommends flu vaccination before the start of flu season but encourages vaccination at any time during the season to ensure protection as long as flu is circulating in the community.
• RSV–RSV, Maternal Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccination, recommends that maternal RSV vaccine during pregnancy in order to protect the infants after birth. Patients should also understand that if they decline the maternal RSV vaccination, their infant needs a monoclonal antibody at birth.

“It is well documented that respiratory conditions can cause poor outcomes during pregnancy, with pregnant women facing both severe illness and threats to the health of their pregnancy. Thanks to vaccines, severe outcomes from respiratory infections are largely preventable,” said Steven J. Fleischman, MD, MBA, president of ACOG. “ACOG’s updated respiratory guidance documents repeat what we have long known: that vaccines continue to be the best tool available for pregnant patients to protect themselves and their infants from these viruses.”

Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA): IDSA has released new COVID-19 vaccination guidelines recommending that all adults and children who are immunocompromised receive an age-appropriate COVID-19 vaccine for the 2025-2026 season. The group recommends that patients talk with their healthcare professionals about the timing and other clinical considerations specific to their individual situations.

People who are immunocompromised include individuals with impaired immune systems due to disease (such as cancer or HIV) or medications they must take to treat a health condition (for example, for organ transplantation). The guidelines also advise that household members and those in close contact with individuals who are immunocompromised be up to date with COVID-19 vaccination to provide further protection.

“Vaccines are one of the most powerful tools to prevent respiratory viral illnesses, and this protection is especially important for individuals in our communities who have impaired immune systems,” said Lindsey Robert Baden, MD, vice president of clinical research at Mass General Brigham, and chair of the guideline panel. “IDSA’s guideline for COVID vaccination for individuals who are immunocompromised helps protect people who often suffer the most severe associated illnesses.”

IDSA will release additional recommendations on flu and RSV vaccination for individuals who are immunocompromised.

NFID will continue to update this post as additional immunization recommendations are published.

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases:

• Like and follow NFID on social media 
• Listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast
• Subscribe to receive future NFID Updates

October is National Liver Awareness Month and Liver Cancer Awareness Month. For nearly 40 years, hepatitis B vaccination has been recommended for US infants to prevent hepatitis B infection, which can lead to liver damage, liver failure, and cancer.

The story of the universal hepatitis B birth dose immunization is one of public health’s great successes. In just under 40 years, the US nearly eliminated transmission of hepatitis B in children. This is a stark difference from 3 decades ago, when 18,000 children a year were infected before they reached age 10. The universal recommendation plays a critical role in reducing the transmission of chronic hepatitis B–a leading cause of liver cancer. Any move away from this standard risks decades of public health progress and puts children at risk.

The recent decision by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) to revisit the hepatitis B birth dose recommendation is a dangerous move away from science. Since the recommendation that infants receive their first hepatitis B vaccine dose within 24 hours of birth was implemented in 1991, the US has achieved incredible results.

The universal hepatitis B birth dose has:

• prevented more than 500,000 childhood infections
• reduced infant hepatitis B cases by 95%
• prevented an estimated 90,100 childhood deaths

Even if an infant is not exposed to hepatitis B at birth, they are still at risk of contracting the disease at any point in their lifetime if they remain unvaccinated. Before hepatitis B vaccine was routinely given to infants, mother-to-child transmission was the most common form of transmission. But children can be exposed to hepatitis B through different routes, such as accidental environmental or household exposure.

Approximately 90% of infants who are exposed to hepatitis B will develop a chronic infection, placing them at a significantly increased risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer later in life.

With more than 2 million people in the US living with hepatitis B, but nearly 70% unaware of their infection, risk of accidental exposure to the virus persists, making the universal birth dose the best available protection against hepatitis B and serious liver complications.

The Dangers of Eliminating the Universal Birth Dose

The potential decision to change the universal birth dose recommendation could have far-reaching implications for children’s health, access, and equity:

• Delayed Access: Infants may not receive the vaccine at the most critical time
• Coverage Gaps: It could result in a lack of insurance coverage for children under the Vaccines for Children program
• Confusion and Inequity: Differing guidelines could create confusion for parents and lead to inequitable access, as some healthcare professionals may follow ACIP while others will follow guidelines set by groups like the American Academy of Pediatrics

Individuals and families affected by the virus are deeply concerned about what the future holds for those who may no longer have access to the vaccine:

• “Consistent access to the hepatitis B vaccine is greatly needed for everyone to prevent as many people from living with the illness, as I do every day. Now is not the time to go against proven science when doing so would cause more deaths.” -David, #JustB storyteller
• “I have seen the suffering and struggles of so many hepatitis B patients, and we all wish one thing, which is that our mothers were tested when they were pregnant and the vaccines were made available to us. Going back to a policy that failed decades ago, in my view, is not smart. It is a horrible move with serious consequences.” -Bright, #JustB storyteller

This proposed change matters to me personally as well. My own daughter turns 6 years old this month, and my wife and I chose for her to receive her first hepatitis B vaccine dose as recommended: within the first 24 hours of birth. It was a choice, not a mandate, but it was choice we would not have had under the ACIP changes being discussed. Working as a hepatitis B advocate, I am burdened with knowing how easily this disease can be transmitted, even when families are being careful. If we could not get our daughter vaccinated on day one, we would have been a nervous wreck until the day she could be vaccinated.

At the end of the day, the universal birth dose recommendation is a safety blanket, giving families the freedom to make the decision that’s best for them while providing educated guidance for what’s best for the public overall. It’s not broken and does not need fixing.

Talk to a Healthcare Professional about Hepatitis B Prevention

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases:

• Like and follow NFID on social media
• Listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast
• Subscribe to receive future NFID Updates

• Evidence-Based Immunization Policies and Practices
• NFID Partner Updates
• Resources (webinars, podcasts, blogs)
• Leaders in the News
• And More …

Message from Headquarters

We are living in a challenging time for science and public health. Infectious diseases continue to disrupt lives and public trust in science is being tested. This is when we most need people to step forward to defend and strengthen what generations have built …

2025 Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Humanitarian Award

Anne E. Goldfeld, MD, a visionary physician-scientist and humanitarian, will receive the 2025 Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Humanitarian Award in recognition of her groundbreaking contributions that have helped change the course of 2 of the deadliest epidemics of our time: tuberculosis (TB) and HIV/AIDS.

Growing up in Los Angeles, Anne developed a deep commitment to justice and human rights at an early age. She attended Brown University and the University of California, Berkeley, and received her medical degree at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. While training as an internist and infectious disease specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital, she volunteered on the Thai-Cambodian border, providing care for refugees who had fled the Khmer Rouge genocide. After her postdoctoral training in molecular biology at Harvard, she returned to the camps as the team leader of a medical program in one of the largest encampments in an active war zone, where she was first exposed to the devastation caused by landmines. Seeing the landmine crisis as a preventable and medical catastrophe, she systemically documented their toll, mounted a first landmine prevention program, and became one of the first voices to call for a global ban on landmines.

A visionary leader at the intersection of science and service, in parallel with her work as a physician-scientist at Harvard Medical School, Goldfeld co-founded transformative treatment and research programs in Cambodia for TB, drug-resistant TB, and HIV—and later for drug-resistant TB in Ethiopia—bringing care to some of the world’s most underserved populations. Applying her scientific expertise to TB and HIV, her work has provided a new understanding behind the immune response to TB and TB/HIV co-infection and changed global treatment guidelines for HIV/TB treatment, which is estimated to have saved more than 150,000 lives annually over the last 14 years.

She is a professor of medicine and pediatrics at Harvard Medical School; senior investigator in the Program on Cellular and Molecular Medicine at Boston Children’s Hospital where her research laboratory is located; professor of immunology and infectious disease at the Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health; a physician in the Infectious Disease Division of Brigham and Women’s Hospital; and co-founder of the Cambodian Health and Global Health Committees.

The fusion of her scientific and clinical work with humanitarian efforts has led to breakthroughs in treatment and research and to bringing access and scaling up of care to treat TB and HIV. She has been described as having a unique ability to see connections overlooked by others. NFID is proud to recognize her work as physician-scientist, visionary, and humanitarian who has made a profound impact on global public health and has contributed discoveries that have saved countless lives.

Join NFID to Honor Anne E. Goldfeld, MD

The 2025 NFID Annual Awards Gala and Silent Auction honors inspirational public health heroes who have helped protect the lives of millions. Join us to celebrate 3 outstanding individuals and support the important work of NFID at the fundraising gala on October 16, 2025, at the Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington, DC.

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available online at www.nfid.org/2025Gala.

All contributions support the NFID vision of healthier lives for all through the effective prevention and treatment of infectious diseases.

For additional perspectives from Anne E. Goldfeld, MD, listen to the NFID Infectious IDeas podcast episode, Hope, Healing, and Human Rights:

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases:

• Like and follow NFID on social media using the hashtag #NFIDAwards
• Listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast
• Subscribe to receive future NFID Updates

The series is part of the NFID “It’s On Us” campaign, which emphasizes the shared responsibility of parents, healthcare professionals, and communities in helping to protect against severe respiratory illness.

“Vaccination saves lives – and it’s on all of us to take action,” said NFID Medical Director Robert H. Hopkins Jr., MD. “Vaccines are not just about preventing infection. When we get vaccinated, we help protect ourselves and those around us from severe outcomes like hospitalization and death.”

At a news briefing today, leading experts from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), and Vaccine Integrity Project will provide clarity and expert insights to bring the science that supports immunization to life.

“Families need clear, consistent, and evidence-based information to make informed decisions about their health,” said Bruce G. Gellin, MD, MPH, a senior advisor to the Center for Infectious Diseases Research and Policy’s (CIDRAP) Vaccine Integrity Project based at the University of Minnesota. “Vaccine guidance coming from medical societies is grounded in decades of research, clinical experience, and expert consensus, ensuring recommendations reflect the best available data to protect individuals and the health of communities.”

What the Science Says: Current Vaccine Recommendations

National medical organizations composed of healthcare professionals who care for patients every day continue to recommend respiratory vaccines for children and pregnant women, based on long-standing evidence and clinical experience.

“Respiratory diseases such as flu, COVID-19, and RSV can be serious for children,” said Sean T. O’Leary, MD, MPH, chair of the AAP Committee on Infectious Diseases. “Vaccines offer critical protection–helping to prevent serious complications and keeping kids healthy, active, and learning.”

Dr. Hopkins and the other panelists note that vaccination is crucial for protecting both children and pregnant women from serious, sometimes life-threatening diseases. If immunization rates decline, they say, there is a higher risk of outbreaks of preventable diseases, leading to more illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths.

Here are the evidence-based guidelines supported by trusted experts from the medical community for the 2025-2026 respiratory disease season:

• Annual flu vaccination for everyone age 6 months and older
• COVID-19 vaccination for those at high risk (including young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions), and anyone age 6 months and older who wants to be vaccinated against COVID-19
• RSV vaccination for pregnant women or RSV immunization (monoclonal antibody) for infants whose mothers did not receive an RSV vaccine during pregnancy; RSV vaccination for certain adults age 50-74 and all adults age 75 and older
• Pneumococcal vaccination for children younger than age 5 years, adults age 50 years and older, and people with certain chronic health conditions or other risk factors

“Respiratory infections can pose a serious threat not only for pregnant women but also for the health of the baby,” said Laura E. Riley, MD, chair of the ACOG Immunization, Infectious Disease and Public Health Preparedness Expert Work Group. “We encourage parents and expecting parents to talk with a trusted healthcare professional about the large and growing body of research and data on the safety and benefits of maternal immunization. These conversations are key to understanding how vaccinations can help protect both mothers and babies – and the entire family.”

In addition to expert insights, today’s briefing will feature special guests sharing personal stories about navigating vaccine choices for their family – offering powerful reminders of the real-world impact of respiratory illness and the importance of informed decision-making. Michele Stevenson and her son Kaden, a mother-son duo who experienced severe flu complications firsthand, will share their story with Michele Slafkosky of Families Fighting Flu.

What’s Next in the Respiratory Season News Briefing Series

Each month, NFID will tackle a different angle of the 2025-2026 respiratory disease season with expert insights and real-life stories to unpack the latest information shaping public health dialogue.

“It can be confusing to keep up with evolving and sometimes conflicting guidance,” said Dr. Hopkins. “These news briefings are designed to meet the moment, offering clarity, compassion, and credible information when it is needed most.”

Upcoming sessions include:

• Healthcare Professionals – October 29, 2025, at 12:00 PM ET: How healthcare professionals can help protect against severe illness during respiratory season – by getting vaccinated themselves and encouraging their patients and communities to do the same

• Older Adults – December 3, 2025, at 12:00 PM ET: The risks of delayed or missed vaccinations in older adults, including gaps in understanding, access, and attitudes toward respiratory vaccines

• People with Chronic Health Conditions – January 14, 2026, at 12:00 PM ET: Why vaccination is essential for people with chronic health conditions and underlying health issues

For more information, visit www.nfid.org/2025flunews.

About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases

Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. NFID has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum transparency seal from Candid/GuideStar. For more information, and to access trusted science-based resources on immunization for both healthcare professionals and the public, visit www.nfid.org.

This news briefing series is sponsored by NFID in collaboration with professional societies and patient advocacy partners, and unrestricted educational grants from AstraZeneca, Sanofi Pasteur Inc., and Seqirus USA Inc. NFID policies prohibit funders from controlling program content.

Media Contact: NFID@apcoworldwide.com

View Resources

When: October 1, 2025 at 10:00-11:00 AM ET

What: Panel discussion + media Q&A, focused on children and pregnant women, providing expert perspectives and personal stories that will highlight what families need to know about COVID-19, influenza (flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and pneumococcal disease

Learn more and register: www.nfid.org/2025flunews

About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases

Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. NFID has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum transparency seal from Candid/GuideStar. For more information, and to access trusted science-based resources on immunization for both healthcare professionals and the public, visit www.nfid.org.

Contact: NFID@apcoworldwide.com

I want to recognize Marla Dalton, who led NFID with vision and left the organization on a strong foundation. Thanks to her leadership, and the dedication of NFID staff and volunteers, NFID is widely recognized as a trusted and respected voice in public health. It is humbling and inspiring to build on that legacy. 

We are living in a challenging time for science and public health. Infectious diseases continue to disrupt lives and public trust in science is being tested. This is when we most need people to step forward to defend and strengthen what generations have built. This moment, with all its challenges and opportunities, is exactly what energizes me to lead NFID. 

NFID has a proud history of living its mission by educating the public and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. The organization has strengthened vaccine confidence, advanced health equity, provided trusted education, and stood as a clear science-based voice in a noisy world. These accomplishments give me great optimism as we build on this foundation to expand NFID’s reach and impact. 

Through our webinars and the Clinical Vaccinology Course, NFID plays a vital role in educating and empowering healthcare professionals to be strong proponents for evidence-based immunization policies and practices. Through our new It’s On Us campaign, NFID and partner organizations emphasize the shared responsibility of the public, healthcare professionals, and communities to help protect against severe respiratory diseases such as flu, COVID-19, RSV, and pneumococcal disease. Vaccination saves lives–and it’s on all of us to take action.

My commitment as CEO is to ensure that NFID remains steady in its mission, resilient in the face of challenges, and ambitious in seizing new opportunities. We will do this together, in strong partnership with our colleagues, partners, and supporters. I am excited for the work ahead and confident in what we will achieve together to ensure healthier lives for all. 

Rebecca Alvania, PhD, MA, MPH

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases:

• Like and follow NFID on social media
• Listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast
• Subscribe to receive future NFID Updates

September is

What is sepsis?

Sepsis is the body’s toxic or severe response to an infection. It occurs when an infection triggers an extreme chain reaction throughout the body, leading to tissue damage, organ failure, and even death if not treated quickly. Each year in the US, at least 1.7 million adults develop sepsis and at least 350,000 adults who develop sepsis die.

What causes sepsis?

Sepsis is caused by an infection, which can originate from bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic sources. Common infections that can lead to sepsis include pneumonia, influenza (flu), urinary tract infections, skin infections, and infections in the intestines.

Who is at risk for sepsis?

Anyone can develop sepsis, but certain individuals are at higher risk, including:

• People age 65 years and older
• Infants and young children
• People with weakened immune systems
• People with chronic health conditions or illnesses such as diabetes, kidney disease, or cancer
• People who are malnourished

What are the symptoms of sepsis?

Sepsis symptoms can start very subtly, or they can come on suddenly. The symptoms may mimic flu or another virus. It’s important to look for the warning signs of sepsis. Spotting these symptoms early could prevent the body from entering septic shock and could save a life.

Sepsis Alliance uses the memory tool Sepsis: It’s About TIME™, to highlight the most common signs and symptoms:

• T – Temperature, higher or lower than normal
• I – Infection, may have signs and symptoms of an infection
• M – Mental Decline, confused, sleepy, difficult to rouse
• E – Extremely Ill, “I feel like I might die,” severe pain or discomfort, shortness of breath

Watch for a combination of these symptoms, especially if you or the individual recently had a cut, scrape, surgery, any illness, were exposed to a virus, or had an invasive procedure. If you suspect sepsis, see a healthcare professional immediately, call 911, or go to a hospital and tell them, “I am concerned about sepsis.”

How is sepsis diagnosed?

Unlike diseases or conditions like diabetes or kidney stones, no single test for sepsis exists. However, physicians diagnose sepsis by evaluating your symptoms and medical history, as well as some physical exams and laboratory tests. Blood and urine tests can help identify infections and organ dysfunction, and imaging studies such as X-rays or CT scans may be used to locate the source of infection.

How is sepsis treated?

Sepsis is a medical emergency that requires immediate hospital care. Treatment for sepsis varies and often involves treating the underlying infection. Treatment can include:

• IV fluids to keep blood pressure stable and protect organs
• IV antibiotics to fight the infection quickly
• Medications to help reduce inflammation or maintain blood pressure
• Oxygen or a ventilator if breathing support is needed
• Other life-support treatments such as dialysis or ECMO, if organs are failing

Can sepsis be prevented?

While not all cases of sepsis can be prevented, the risk can be reduced by:

• Taking antibiotics or other antimicrobials if prescribed, finishing the entire course of medications
• Not taking antibiotics you do not need, or taking someone else’s antibiotics. Using antibiotics wisely can help reduce the chances of developing antibiotic-resistant infections.
• Frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• Asking your doctor, nurse, or other healthcare professional to wash their hands if you have not seen them do so
• Getting an annual flu immunization and other immunizations as recommended by a trusted healthcare professional
• Coughing into your elbow, not your hand (to help prevent spreading of germs if you are sick)
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle
• Seeking urgent medical help if an illness does not seem to be improving, or it is getting worse

What are the long-term effects of sepsis?

Many people recover from sepsis, but some experience long-term complications. ~1% of sepsis patients undergo one or more surgical amputations of a limb or digit. Additionally, up to 50% of sepsis survivors experience post-sepsis syndrome (PSS), with long-term physical effects such as:

• Insomnia and fatigue
• Breathing difficulties
• Muscle and joint pain
• Repeat infections
• Psychological effects such as hallucinations, panic attacks, nightmares, cognitive impairments, and depression

Where can I find more information about sepsis?

Explore the Sepsis Alliance website for additional information about sepsis, resource guides, videos, and more. Sepsis Alliance also has Sepsis Alliance Connect, where survivors and loved ones who have lost someone to sepsis gather to ask questions and offer support.

Learn more about sepsis, sepsis survivorship, infection prevention, and how you can help save lives and limbs from this condition at Sepsis.org. Learn more about appropriate antimicrobial use and antimicrobial resistance at EndSuperbugs.org.

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases:

• Like and follow NFID on social media
• Listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast
• Subscribe to receive future NFID Updates

Bethesda, MD (September 17, 2025)—The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is urging the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) to maintain the long-standing, evidence-based, and transparent process that has guided deliberations on US vaccine policy for decades.

In comments submitted to ACIP ahead of its September 18–19, 2025 meeting, NFID emphasized that any changes to US vaccine recommendations should only occur after a rigorous scientific review and should be evidence-based, noting that ACIP recommendations directly impact the availability of vaccines, insurance coverage, Medicare and Medicaid benefits, and equitable access through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program.

NFID joins the medical and scientific community in urging ACIP not to convene in the absence of a thorough, balanced, and vetted review of available data by qualified experts. “For decades, ACIP’s strength has been its rigorous, transparent, evidence-based process,” said NFID Medical Director Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD. “Any departure from that approach undermines public trust and risks weakening the nation’s response to serious infectious disease threats.”

NFID comments on the ACIP agenda include:

• COVID-19 vaccines, including mRNA options, have saved millions of US lives, remain the most effective tool to prevent severe illness due to COVID-19, and should remain available, with equitable access, to all who want them.
• Hepatitis B vaccination from birth and across the lifespan is critical to eliminating this serious liver disease as a public health threat in the US.
• Measles-mumps-rubella-varicella (MMRV) vaccines are essential to preventing dangerous outbreaks, especially amid rising measles cases.
• RSV vaccines and immunizations are critically important advances that help protect infants and older adults who are most at risk of severe RSV disease.

NFID strongly supports the use of evidence-based guidance to inform public health policy and will work to preserve equitable access, choice, and public and private insurance coverage to life-saving immunizations to protect the health of people across the US.

About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases

Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. NFID has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum transparency seal from Candid/GuideStar. For more information, and to access trusted science-based resources on immunization for both healthcare professionals and the public, visit www.nfid.org.

Contact: Diana Olson, communications@nfid.org

When I first joined NFID 15 years ago, none of us could have predicted the challenges that lay ahead. From seasonal flu to the global COVID-19 pandemic, infectious diseases have repeatedly reminded us of their power to disrupt lives and communities. Yet time and again, NFID has risen to the occasion—grounding our work in science, fostering collaboration, and serving as a trusted voice for public health.

What fills me most with pride is how NFID has grown and adapted without ever losing sight of our core values. Over the years, we navigated extraordinary obstacles and celebrated meaningful milestones. Together, we have:

• Expanded programs to strengthen vaccine confidence and address health equity
• Launched podcasts, webinars, and digital campaigns to reach people where they are
• Honored the pioneers of science while inspiring the next generation to follow in their footsteps
• Built partnerships across the public and private sectors to amplify our collective reach and impact

Through it all, NFID has become a stronger, more resilient organization—ready to take on whatever challenges lie ahead.

These accomplishments belong not to one person, but to the NFID community as a whole. I am deeply proud of what we have achieved, and I am confident that NFID is now stronger than ever—well positioned to meet the challenges of the future, from emerging pathogens to the urgent need for continued public trust in science.

On a personal note, I have grown immensely during these 15 years. I have learned so much and I have been humbled by the brilliance and generosity of the infectious disease community. Leadership is not about one person—it is about building something bigger that will last long after you are gone.

As I look ahead, I am excited about what comes next—for both NFID and for me personally. I have no doubt that NFID will continue to thrive under new leadership, advancing its mission with the same passion and purpose that has guided us for more than 50 years.

To our partners, colleagues, supporters, and friends—thank you. Thank you for your support, your trust, your collaboration, and your unwavering belief in the power of prevention. Serving as NFID CEO has been a privilege beyond measure, and saying goodbye is bittersweet. I will forever cherish the memories we have made and the progress we have achieved together. I look forward to cheering from the sidelines and watching NFID continue to flourish in the years to come …

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases:

• Like and follow NFID on social media
• Listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast
• Subscribe to receive future NFID Updates

2025 John P. Utz Leadership Award

Patricia N. Whitley-Williams, MD, a nationally recognized leader in pediatric infectious diseases, will receive the 2025 John P. Utz Leadership Award in recognition of her longstanding service to NFID and her leadership and unwavering commitment to advancing health equity and improving health outcomes for all. As a past president of NFID and recently retired chair of the Department of Pediatrics at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, she has dedicated her career to improving the lives of children and families through science, education, and advocacy.

When she began her career, pediatric infectious diseases was an emerging specialty and children were still suffering from now-preventable diseases. It was the beginning of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, when many people were dying in the prime of life, not only young adults but also infants and children. But new diagnostic tests and expanding knowledge of HIV transmission and prevention led to a remarkable transformation.

She served on the safety and monitoring board for a large clinical trial that was terminated early because of significant reduction in mother-to-child transmission in the treated group. “This was a remarkable discovery,” she says, noting that it dramatically decreased the number of US babies born infected with HIV each year. She credits the thousands of unnamed patients who participated in clinical trials (many of whom were from communities of color) for making a personal contribution to science and helping to save millions of lives.

During a pivotal experience in rural South Africa, she witnessed both the devastating toll of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and the profound hope brought by the introduction of lifesaving therapies. With support from global partners and the dedication of local nurses and community health workers, prevention and treatment efforts began to transform lives in one of the hardest-hit districts. The resilience of the community and the power of collaboration left an enduring impact on her. “It was a mixture of dire despair and yet surmountable hope,” she says, reinforcing her belief that progress is possible.

When asked about the greatest challenges of her career, she cites the rise of vaccine hesitancy, which intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic and was especially evident among communities of color. Misinformation, distrust, and systemic inequities have all played a role, she says, but adds that this moment underscores the urgent need for culturally competent care, stronger communication, and a more diverse healthcare workforce. By advancing education, building trust, and empowering future health professionals, she believes the public health community can address hesitancy and ensure that vaccines continue to protect the health of all communities.

While chair of pediatrics at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and medical director of the Bristol-Myers Squibb Children’s Hospital, Whitley-Williams led a dedicated team during a time of growth and she established programs that continue to shape pediatric care and research, from launching the first Pediatric Trauma Center and Genetic Counselor Program in New Jersey to expanding research, training, and specialty care that benefit children and families statewide.

Looking back on her career, she has no regrets. “I love pediatrics and infectious diseases. I am honored and deeply humbled to have had a profession that allowed me to learn from my patients and their families and to advocate for improving their health and their overall lives.”

She offers this advice to the next generation: “The specialty of pediatric infectious diseases is so rewarding and offers so many different paths … Our work to make the lives of all people as healthy as possible and free from bias is never done.”

Favorite quote from Maya Angelou:

The truth is, no one of us can be free until everybody is free.

Join NFID to Honor Patricia N. Whitley-Williams, MD

The 2025 NFID Annual Awards Gala and Silent Auction honors inspirational public health heroes who have helped protect the lives of millions. Join us to celebrate 3 outstanding individuals and support the important work of NFID at the fundraising gala on October 16, 2025, at the Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington, DC.

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available online at www.nfid.org/2025Gala.

All contributions support the NFID vision of healthier lives for all through the effective prevention and treatment of infectious diseases.

For additional perspectives from Patricia N. Whitley-Williams, MD, listen to the NFID Infectious IDeas podcast episode, Health Disparities and Vaccine Hesitancy:

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases:

• Like and follow NFID on social media using the hashtag #NFIDAwards
• Listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast
• Subscribe to receive future NFID Updates

2025 Maxwell Finland Award for Scientific Achievement

Rino Rappuoli, PhD, scientific director of the Biotecnopolo di Siena Foundation, Italy, will receive the 2025 Maxwell Finland Award for Scientific Achievement, in recognition of his remarkable accomplishments which have helped turn scientific dreams into reality, saving millions of lives and shaping the future of global public health.

“We are in a unique moment when science and technology can solve major problems, from improving pandemic preparedness to enhancing the quality of life for aging populations, to tackling neurodegenerative diseases that have an infectious component.” That is how Rino Rappuoli, PhD, views the opportunities in the field of infectious diseases today.

Even his view of the threats facing the profession is tinged with optimism: “We are also living in a moment when anti-science movements are gaining traction in many parts of the world, standing in the way of progress and impeding a better quality of life. It is a difficult moment, but I believe it will be temporary, because the impact of science is so powerful that no one can stop it.”

His optimism was shaped by his childhood in Siena, a small Italian city where Albert Sabin developed the polio vaccine. Inspired by the power of science to overcome a disease that afflicted many of his peers, Rappuoli went on to become one of the most innovative scientists of his time, a leader in the field of microbial pathogenesis who has transformed how vaccines are developed.

Best known for pioneering reverse vaccinology, which uses genetic information to design vaccines, his work led to the first successful vaccine against meningococcus B, a devastating disease that can lead to rapid death in previously healthy children. He also fostered revolutionary technologies to help develop safer and more effective vaccines against Hib disease, influenza, pneumococcal disease, and pertussis, saving millions of lives around the world.

An elected member of the National Academy of Sciences, Rappuoli was awarded the Albert B. Sabin Gold Medal in 2009 and is currently president of the International Union of Microbiological Societies. He also serves as honorary professor of Vaccinology at Imperial College, London, and senior professor of molecular biology at the University of Siena.

When asked to reflect on his many accomplishments, he humbly replies, “The greatest achievement of my career has been working at the intersection of cutting-edge science and real-world application, contributing not only to the discovery of innovative vaccines, but also to their development, licensure, and global use to improve people’s health.”

Rappuoli finds inspiration in the work of other visionary scientists “who see revolutionary innovations before others do and pursue their dreams despite skepticism until those dreams become reality.”

Favorite quote from Dante Alighieri:

We were not born to live in ignorance like animals, but to explore the universe and its secrets, to improve our knowledge, and use it for the benefit of humanity.

Join NFID to Honor Rino Rappuoli, PhD

The 2025 NFID Annual Awards Gala and Silent Auction honors inspirational public health heroes who have helped protect the lives of millions. Join us to celebrate 3 public health heroes and support the important work of NFID at the fundraising gala on October 16, 2025, at the Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington, DC.

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available online at www.nfid.org/2025Gala.

All contributions support the NFID vision of healthier lives for all through the effective prevention and treatment of infectious diseases.

For additional perspectives from Rino Rappuoli, PhD, listen to the NFID Infectious IDeas podcast episode, How Passion and Purpose Drive Vaccine Innovation:

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases:

• Like and follow NFID on social media using the hashtag #NFIDAwards
• Listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast
• Subscribe to receive future NFID Updates

In announcing the appointment, the NFID Board of Directors recognized the outstanding contributions Dalton made since she joined NFID in 2010 and became chief staff officer in 2013. Under her bold leadership, NFID integrated public and professional education programs, expanded strategic partnerships with more than 300 organizations, achieved significant growth in NFID reserves and investment assets, developed new programs and resources, and led innovative medical education and outreach initiatives that significantly broadened the reach and impact of NFID.

“As I reflect on my time at NFID over the past 15 years, I am incredibly proud of all that we have accomplished together—from expanding our reach and impact through innovative education and outreach programs, to strengthening trusted partnerships across the public health community,” said Dalton. “NFID has grown into a leading voice in infectious disease prevention, thanks to the dedication of our talented staff team, committed Board of Directors, and passionate supporters. We have built a strong foundation that positions NFID for continued success, and I am confident that the organization is well-prepared for this next chapter of leadership and impact.”

Alvania brings extensive experience in scientific leadership, strategic planning, and global public health. She previously served as CEO of the American Society for Cell Biology, where she spearheaded a comprehensive strategic planning process, modernized the organization’s mission and programs, and led a successful financial turnaround while expanding global engagement.

“We look forward to working with Rebecca, who brings a blend of visionary leadership, operational expertise, and a deep commitment to advancing science and public health,” said Jeffery A. Goad, PharmD, MPH, NFID president and chair of the Search Committee. “Her track record in forging impactful partnerships, driving programmatic innovation, and aligning strategy with execution positions her to build upon the success of NFID and guide us into the future.”

As NFID chief staff officer, Alvania will provide leadership and direction to advance the NFID mission to educate and engage the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. She will serve as a key NFID spokesperson and an ex-officio member of the NFID Board of Directors and all Board-level committees.

Alvania began her career in media communications at the National Academy of Sciences and held leadership roles working with scientific journals, including the American Society for Microbiology. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she helped launch one of the first expedited, open-access publishing workflows for COVID-related research, accelerating the global dissemination of critical scientific findings.

She holds a doctorate in neuroscience from The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, a master’s in science communication from The Johns Hopkins University, and a master’s in global public health from Tulane University. She is a member of the American Society of Association Executives, the Council of Engineering and Scientific Society Executives, the Society for Scholarly Publishing, and the Association for Women in Science.

“It is an honor to join an organization as respected and trusted as NFID, especially at a time when the stakes for public health and science are so high,” said Alvania. “NFID plays a critical role in educating both healthcare professionals and the public, promoting vaccine confidence, and protecting communities through science-based communication. I’m excited to bring my background in science and public health to lead this work and to help ensure that trusted, evidence-based information reaches everyone.”

About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases

Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. NFID has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum transparency seal from Candid. For more information, visit www.nfid.org.

Contact: Diana Olson, dolson@nfid.org

• Anne E. Goldfeld, MD: Visionary Physician-Scientist Transforming Global Health through Courage and Compassion
• Rino Rappuoli, PhD: Pioneering Vaccine Leader Advancing Global Public Health
• Patricia N. Whitley-Williams, MD: Champion of Health Equity, Access, and Community Engagement

Bethesda, MD (July 23, 2025)—The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) has announced the 2025 recipients of the prestigious NFID awards honoring outstanding individuals who have made significant and lasting contributions to public health through leadership, scientific achievement, philanthropy, and policy work. The following awards will be presented at the 2025 NFID Awards Gala in Washington, DC on October 16, 2025:

Anne E. Goldfeld, MD, of Harvard Medical School and Boston Children’s Hospital, will receive the 2025 NFID Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Humanitarian Award in recognition of her groundbreaking contributions as a physician-scientist and humanitarian who has focused on changing the course of 2 of the deadliest epidemics of our time: tuberculosis (TB) and HIV/AIDS. A visionary leader at the intersection of science and service, her work has provided a new understanding behind the immune response to TB/HIV co-infection. Beyond the lab, Goldfeld co-founded transformative treatment and research programs in Cambodia and Ethiopia for TB, drug-resistant TB, and HIV—bringing care to some of the world’s most underserved populations. Earlier in her career, she led humanitarian responses in conflict zones and was an advocate and one of the first voices calling for a global ban of landmines. Her leadership helped change global guidelines for HIV/TB treatment, now estimated to save more than 150,000 lives annually. “Anne Goldfeld is a brilliant and creative physician-scientist, visionary, and a true humanitarian,” said Gail H. Cassell, PhD, senior lecturer, Department of Global Health and Social Medicine at Harvard Medical School. “I have never met anyone in global public health who has made a more profound impact.”

Rino Rappuoli, PhD, of the Fondazione Biotecnopolo di Siena, will receive the 2025 NFID Maxwell Finland Award for Scientific Achievement, in recognition of his work as an innovator, scientist, and a leader in the field of microbial pathogenesis and vaccine development which has had a tremendous impact on public health. Over the past 40 years, Rappuoli has led major breakthroughs that have transformed how vaccines are developed. His work includes developing revolutionary technologies to help develop safer and more effective vaccines for diseases including Hib disease (Haemophilus influenzae type b), influenza (flu), pneumococcal disease, and whooping cough (pertussis). He pioneered a new method called reverse vaccinology, which uses genetic information to design vaccines, and led to the first successful vaccine against meningococcus B, which can cause meningitis and other dangerous infections. “Rino Rappuoli’s visionary leadership has transformed the way we discover and develop vaccines,” said Steven Black, MD, co-director of the Global Vaccine Data Network and emeritus professor of pediatrics at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. “His scientific achievements have saved millions of lives and continue to shape the future of global public health.” Rappuoli remains committed to advancing vaccines for both emerging threats and underserved populations around the world.

Patricia N. Whitley-Williams, MD, recently retired from Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, will receive the 2025 John P. Utz Leadership Award in recognition of her longstanding service to NFID and her unwavering commitment to advancing health equity and community engagement in vaccine research and communication. A nationally respected pediatric infectious disease expert, Whitley-Williams has served NFID in numerous leadership roles, including as past president. An active member of the Pediatric Section and the Vaccine Advisory Committee of the National Medical Association, she has been an advocate for updating physicians from communities of color and promoting immunizations in marginalized communities. As a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., a public service organization, she is engaged in community outreach. Beginning her career when pediatric HIV was first discovered, her work has spanned from pre-antiretrovirals to prevention of mother-to-child transmission to HIV prevention. She has mentored many pediatricians, residents, and medical students. Board-certified in pediatrics and pediatric infectious diseases, she is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. “Patricia Whitley-Williams is the voice of the people, a champion for women, people of color, and those new to medicine,” said NFID Immediate Past-President Patricia (Patsy) A. Stinchfield, RN, MS, CPNP. “She has been a tireless advocate for ensuring that vaccine clinical trials reflect the full diversity of the populations they are intended to protect and has worked to expand access to accurate, trustworthy information through outreach to underserved communities.”

Public Health Heroes To Be Honored at NFID Black-Tie Gala

The awards will be presented at the 2025 NFID Awards Gala and Silent Auction, a black-tie fundraising event scheduled for October 16, 2025, at the Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington, DC. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available online at www.nfid.org/2025Gala. All contributions support the NFID vision of healthier lives for all through effective prevention and treatment of infectious diseases.

Nominations for the 2026 awards will open in early 2026. Additional information will be available at www.nfid.org/awards.

About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases

Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. NFID has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum transparency seal from Candid/GuideStar. For more information, visit www.nfid.org.

Contact: Diana Olson, communications@nfid.org

Read recent news about the importance of handwashing to help stop the spread of infectious diseases …

US Adults Still Don’t Know How and When to Wash Their Hands: Some adults are still not doing their due diligence when it comes to washing their hands. That’s according to an NFID survey that found nearly half of respondents forget or choose not to wash their hands at key times, such as after visiting grocery stores, restaurants, or coffee shops. “We have been talking about handwashing probably back to the days when all of us were in preschool or even kindergarten,” said NFID Medical Director Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD. “I would have hoped that we would think of that as a core way of keeping ourselves healthy regardless of our other health behaviors.” Source: CNN

Handwashing: An Infection Prevention Method That We Forget? Handwashing often takes place after encounters with people, using the bathroom, or touching doors or other areas where the public has been utilizing. However, it can be quite a personal decision and one associated with people’s beliefs about germs.”62% of the survey respondents correctly stated that washing your hands for 20 seconds with soap and water effectively reduces the spread of germs,” said Hopkins. “Only 30% reported they are most likely to wash their hands after a cough or sneezing, which is a concern, especially given what we know about how easily we spread respiratory disease by droplets.” Source: Contagion Live

4 Biggest Handwashing Mistakes That Could Increase Germs and Viruses: Proper handwashing could save about 1 million lives around the world each year, and yet many people are doing it improperly, often due to misconceptions surrounding the practice. The NFID 2025 State of Handwashing Report provides details on handwashing habits (and mistakes). Experts recommend washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds to reduce the spread of infectious diseases. Source: Fox News

US Adults Are Still Washing Their Hands Wrong—or Not at All:Apparently, the pandemic hygiene lessons didn’t stick. Let’s be clear: this isn’t about lacking access to sinks or soap. “Handwashing is an easy and effective way to prioritize your health and the health of those around you,” said Patricia A. Stinchfield, RN, MS, CPNP, NFID immediate past-president. And yet? A solid chunk of people only bother during cold and flu season, as if germs take summers off. Source: Vice

Most People Don’t Do This 1 Important Habit When They Come Home From Running Errands: It’s hard to resist the temptation to roll your eyes when someone talks about the importance of washing your hands. Not only have you heard this since you were a kid, but you also survived a pandemic—you know the deal with hand hygiene. But, an NFID survey finds that we are still falling short overall on handwashing. Source: Well+Good

Stop Making This Handwashing Mistake: An easy habit to stick with? Wash your hands every time you come home, and make sure you are doing it the right way: Scrub with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, making sure to get under your fingernails. Do not forget to properly dry your hands too; wet hands spread germs more easily. Source: Yahoo!Life

The Clean Hands Caravan was created to make handwashing accessible and visible during key moments in everyday life. We wanted to grab people’s attention to bring some excitement to an important but sometimes overlooked habit taught in kindergarten—washing your hands.

NFID Chief Executive Officer Marla Dalton, PE, CAE

Join the #HandsInForHandwashing Movement:

NFID encourages everyone to wash their hands to help stop the spread of infectious diseases, and invites organizations to join the Hands In For Handwashing movement to support healthier lives for all.

• Use these sample posts and shareable resources to help spread the word
• For more information about the 2025 NFID State of Handwashing report and the Hands In For Handwashing campaign, visit: www.nfid.org/handwashing

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases:

• Like and follow NFID on social media using the hashtags #WashYourHands and #HandsInForHandwashing
• Listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast
• Subscribe to receive future NFID Updates

Wilbur H. Chen, MD, MS, is the Frank M. Calia, MD Endowed Professor of Medicine, chief of the division of geographic medicine, and director of travel medicine practice at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. He is also chief of the adult clinical studies section at the University of Maryland Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health. A physician-scientist who trained in adult infectious diseases, his career has covered the development and use of vaccines to address global health problems. He was a voting member of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) from 2020-2024. His academic research has focused on vaccines against diarrheal diseases, Campylobacter, Shigella, Cryptosporidium, salmonella, and Clostridioides difficile (C. diff). He also has extensive clinical research experience on vaccines against influenza, meningococcal disease, and biodefense agents, including anthrax, smallpox, tularemia, and staphylococcal enterotoxin. Chen has served on the planning committee of the NFID Clinical Vaccinology Course since 2019 and as an NFID speaker on travel vaccines. “I look forward to joining the NFID Board and collaborating with partners to advocate for vaccine programs and improved control and mitigation of diseases through vaccination,” said Chen.

Audrey M. Stevenson, PhD, MPH, FNP-BC, is a faculty member of the graduate nurse practitioner and master of public health programs at the University of Utah School of Medicine and an associate faculty member in the family nurse practitioner program at the University of Phoenix College of Nursing. An independent family nurse practitioner and consultant, she has been recognized and awarded for her work in vaccine advocacy. She formerly was the division director of family health and clinical services of the Salt Lake County Health Department and served on the Utah Vaccine Advisory Committee setting state vaccine policy. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she directed vaccination strategies for 1.2 million residents of Salt Lake County. Now retired from clinical practice, she continues to be a vaccine champion. Stevenson holds masters of public health and nursing degrees and received her doctorate in public health from the University of Utah. “NFID is on the cutting-edge of education and awareness,” Stevenson said. “I believe NFID and partners can use our voices to demonstrate the need for continued vigilance on important infectious disease issues, including antimicrobial resistance, vaccine programs, disease monitoring, and the vital education provided to healthcare professionals and the public.”

Jean-Venable (Kelly) R. Goode, PharmD, is professor and director of the Community-Based Pharmacy Residency Program at Virginia Commonwealth University. She is a credentialed community-based pharmacist practitioner at Daily Planet Health Services, a federally qualified health center that provides services to anyone regardless of their housing or insurance status. She developed innovative pharmacist patient care programs within a patient-centered medical home, including providing leadership for the Vaccines for Children and Vaccines for Adult Programs. Goode is the American Pharmacists Association liaison to ACIP and a former president of the American Pharmacists Association and Virginia Pharmacists Association. “The biggest challenge we face today is vaccine misinformation,” said Goode. “NFID is positioned to address this challenge through community partnerships, education, and consistent messaging to empower pharmacists and other healthcare professionals to engage with patients and address their concerns with evidence-based information, 1 individual at a time.”

The NFID Board of Directors also expresses appreciation to outgoing Director Kathleen H. Harriman, PhD, MPH, RN (California Department of Public Health) for her contributions to NFID.

As the governing body of NFID, the 2025-2026 NFID Board of Directors establishes the NFID strategic direction, ensures that annual goals are met, and provides financial oversight.

2025-2026 NFID Board of Directors

• Kevin A. Ault, MD (NFID Vice President), Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine
• Oliver T. Brooks, MD, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science
• Wilbur H. Chen, MD, MS, University of Maryland School of Medicine
• Marla Dalton, PE, CAE, NFID CEO (Ex-Officio)
• Monica M. Farley, MD (NFID President-Elect), Emory University School of Medicine
• Jeffery A. Goad, PharmD, MPH (NFID President), Chapman University School of Pharmacy
• Jean-Venable R. Goode, PharmD, Virginia Commonwealth University
• Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD, NFID Medical Director (Ex-Officio)
• Orin S. Levine, PhD, Tin Horse LLC
• Julie Morita, MD, The Joyce Foundation
• Flor M. Muñoz, MD, MSc, Baylor College of Medicine
• Kathleen M. Neuzil, MD, MPH (Federal Liaison)
• Sean T. O’Leary, MD, MPH, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus
• Kevin M. Rooney (NFID Secretary-Treasurer), NervGen Pharma
• Audrey M. Stevenson, PhD, MPH, FNP-BC, University of Utah School of Medicine
• Patricia A. Stinchfield, RN, MS, CPNP (NFID Immediate Past-President)
• Matthew M. Zahn, MD, OC Health Care Agency

About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases

Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. NFID has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum transparency seal from Candid/GuideStar. Visit www.nfid.org for additional information.

Contact: Diana Olson, communications@nfid.org

• Collaborations around Immunization Challenges
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Message from Headquarters

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG): The meeting of the newly reconstructed ACIP demonstrated that the committee did not follow the longstanding tradition of robust, unbiased review of reputable scientific evidence by medical and public health experts. Particularly concerning was the new committee’s lack of acknowledgement of the presentation of well-established efficacy and safety data on the COVID-19 vaccine, which was abruptly removed from the adult immunization schedule in June, during pregnancy. The data presented by CDC made clear the importance of COVID-19 vaccination for pregnant patients and for their infants. Additionally, ACOG is concerned that the ACIP vote regarding influenza vaccination will hinder a pregnant woman’s ability and decision to receive the seasonal flu vaccine, which has long been proven to be safe during pregnancy and which has provided protection to pregnant women for years. The data presented to ACIP affirm why ACOG continues to recommend safe, effective maternal vaccination. If ACIP responded to the data as presented in a way that values medical evidence and public health, the government’s recommendation for COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy would be restored and support for maternal vaccination would be unwavering.
—ACOG President, Steven J. Fleischman, MD, MBA

American College of Physicians (ACP): ACP is deeply alarmed by the proceedings of the ACIP meeting this week. What should have been a rigorous, evidence-based discussion on the national vaccine schedule instead appeared to be a predetermined exercise orchestrated to undermine the well-established safety and efficacy of vaccines and fundamental basics of science. Our concerns have been confirmed: a committee and process that was once grounded in science and the best available evidence has become politicized. The committee—assembled hastily and without transparency and not chaired by a physician with medical training—demonstrated bias and made statements that go against the evidence-to-recommendation framework and transparent process for which the previous ACIP was known and trusted. False comments about vaccine safety made by current committee members with no clinical experience will further sow seeds of fear, doubt, and distrust in medicine among patients and contribute to the spread of medical mis- and disinformation. This is a dangerous and reckless path that will leave our patients vulnerable to preventable illnesses. With this erosion of trust, physicians and the public will be forced to seek scientifically sound vaccine guidance and recommendations that are based on the best available evidence to protect the public health in our country elsewhere.
—ACP President, Jason M. Goldman, MD

Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA): The June meeting of the ACIP was politicized, chaotic, and not transparent. That kind of process is harmful to the American people. Agenda items were added last minute, limiting the ability of members to review data. Disclosures about potential conflicts of interest of the newly appointed ACIP members have not been made public. Re-examining the childhood vaccine schedule and the use of thimerosal are both politically motivated actions that are not based on science. Raising questions without adequate data casts doubt on vaccination, which can further drive down confidence in vaccines. More than any other medications, vaccines are extensively and constantly reviewed and evaluated. Vaccination saves lives. The American people deserve an objective and transparent review process based on scientific evidence, not political agendas with no basis in facts. 
—Tina Tan, MD, President, IDSA

National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID): Deviation from the long-standing evidence-based process that has historically guided ACIP deliberations undermines transparency and trust, risks legitimizing misinformation, and is harmful to public health. A process that includes input from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) experts, working groups, and trusted scientific and medical organizations, has been critical to ensuring rigorous, transparent, evidence-based recommendations that the public and healthcare professionals can trust. Voting on critical policy recommendations without due process that includes a thorough, balanced, and vetted review of available data by qualified experts invalidates the results and leads to confusion and distrust of recommendations. “Vaccines are among the greatest public health accomplishments,” said NFID Medical Director Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD. “The process we witnessed instills doubt rather than builds confidence and calls into question the legitimacy of the votes taken, including the vote on thimerosal in influenza (flu) vaccines.”

There is no new scientific evidence warranting a change in recommendations for thimerosal-containing flu vaccines. Thimerosal has been used for decades in the US as a preservative to prevent the growth of dangerous germs. Based on multiple peer-reviewed scientific studies in the US and other countries, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) concluded that thimerosal-containing vaccines are safe and have a long history of preventing contamination. The virtually non-existent risks of thimerosal in flu vaccines pale in comparison to the real risks posed by flu each year in the US. There were 250 US pediatric flu deaths during the 2024-2025 season, the deadliest non-pandemic flu season on record for US children. Flu vaccination saves lives and helps prevent serious flu-related complications. CDC preliminary estimates show that during the 2024-2025 season, flu vaccination prevented 12.5 million flu-related illnesses, 5.7 million medical visits, and 240,000 hospitalizations. Any changes in immunization recommendations, including recommendations on COVID-19 vaccines, maternal and pediatric RSV immunization, and the use of thimerosal in flu vaccines, must be based on science and evaluated using a consistent and rigorous process. Immunization is an essential tool in protecting against serious outcomes of preventable diseases. NFID strongly supports the use of evidence-based guidance reviewed by qualified experts, within CDC and externally, to inform public health policy, and we will work to preserve equitable access, choice, and public and private insurance coverage to life-saving immunizations to protect the health of people across the US.

National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (NAPNAP): Since 2004, NAPNAP has had a member expert serve as a voting or liaison member of ACIP. NAPNAP appreciates the thoughtful comments and scientific insights shared by CDC staff presenters and organizational liaisons, but we are, for the first time in more than two decades of ACIP participation, compelled to question the validity and reliability of the ACIP review and voting process. As we look to the future, NAPNAP will collaborate with organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics, NFID, and others that support immunization recommendations based on rigorous analysis of widely accepted scientific evidence and thoughtful discussion of first-hand clinical experience. We will join forces to urge insurance companies to stand up for science and public health to provide immunization coverage to infants, children, adolescents, and families. We implore the US Senate to approve a CDC director who has significant scientific or medical experience, understands and adheres to long-standing agency protocols, values the experience of the agency’s subject matter experts and staff, and will mandate the use of widely accepted scientific research and evidence in decision-making. Children and families deserve no less.

Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society (PIDS): ACIP is intended to provide “expert advice” on federal immunization policy. That is how the committee operated prior to the extraordinary firings of the 17 vetted, respected, and knowledgeable clinicians, researchers, immunologists, and public health leaders then on ACIP. The new and hastily appointed 7-member committee that replaced those experts conducted its first meeting, and the fears shared by PIDS and many in the scientific community of a politicized ACIP materialized over the past few days. In a meeting designed to undermine public trust in the safety and efficacy of many vaccines, data were misrepresented, unproven and disproven statements were presented as facts, and anti-vaccine framing dominated discussions of COVID-19, influenza, RSV, hepatitis B, MMRV, and the childhood vaccine schedule. Absent the regular evidence-based review of the science relating to these vaccines, led and conducted by experts in the field, Americans will lose faith in ACIP’s legitimacy. The most severe resulting consequences of undermined public trust in vaccines will disproportionately fall on those who are most vulnerable to preventable diseases. PIDS remains steadfast in our belief in the safety and efficacy of vaccines in protecting children, the necessity of the childhood vaccine schedule and the Vaccines for Children Program to ensure no child is forced to suffer from a preventable disease. PIDS will continue to work with partners to preserve vaccine recommendations based on evidence, not politics. (PIDS President William J. Steinback, MD, subsequently shared a letter with his reflections on the ACIP meeting)

Society of Infectious Diseases Pharmacists (SIDP): The recent overhaul of ACIP membership has sparked significant concerns, not only about the integrity of the US public health infrastructure, but also about the potential erosion of public trust in immunization programs. SIDP is taking action to ensure that national vaccine recommendations and immunization practices are preserved. We believe we must do what we can to educate key decision makers and the public that the rigorous review process for recommendations must continue to be grounded in scientific evidence. To achieve this goal, we will be advocating for the good of the public’s health by working closely with other organizations to help reduce disease outbreaks, protect vulnerable populations, and promote community-wide immunity. Our efforts will focus on upholding, sharing, and developing credible and essential sources of science-based guidelines to help pharmacists and other medical professionals, parents, and all patients make informed immunization decisions. We will be voicing our support for the appointment of qualified medical and scientific professionals with credentials that reinforce public confidence in immunization programs, and we have active representatives serving on work groups. We are also empowering our members to engage with their legislators and state health departments to drive meaningful change. Together we will work to restore the breadth of expertise necessary to make safe and effective recommendations for immunization practice with qualified experts in infectious diseases.
—SIDP President Erin K. McCreary, PharmD, BCIDP

Vaccinate Your Family (VYF): For more than 6 decades, ACIP has provided evidence-based recommendations that have guided healthcare providers in protecting public health. Traditionally composed of trusted experts in immunology, epidemiology, pediatrics, geriatrics, internal medicine, infectious disease, and public health, ACIP has long been a cornerstone of sound vaccine policy. However, following the June 25–26, 2025 meeting—the first since the Secretary of Health replaced all 17 vetted voting members with newly appointed individuals—VYF has serious concerns. With the exception of Cody Meissner, MD, the conduct and qualifications of the newly seated members raised significant questions about the integrity of future vaccine recommendations. America’s current measles surge and eroding childhood vaccination rates underscore why it is dangerous to allow the members of this committee to spend government resources to revisit well-established vaccine science and guidance. The misinformation that was presented regarding the safety of thimerosal, the recommended childhood vaccine schedule, and COVID-19 protection for pregnant women, only risks lending credibility to the biased notions of many of the committee members. VYF is particularly concerned about the low standard of the evidence presented before the committee prior to their vote on thimerosal-containing flu vaccines. The committee voted on a recommendation change after hearing only 1 presentation from an independent citizen, abandoning the scientific rigor we have come to expect from this committee. Typically, recommendations are voted on after hearing data presented from multiple sources and the use of the Evidence to Recommendations (EtR) framework. According to the CDC website, “the purpose of the EtR framework is to describe information for consideration in making recommendations move from evidence to decisions, and to provide transparency around the impact of these factors on deliberations when considering a recommendation.” Our concern is not that the committee wishes to move away from the use of thimerosal-containing flu vaccines, but rather the inadequate standard of evidence used to support this decision and the complete omission of the extensive body of research demonstrating thimerosal’s safety. This departure from scientific rigor sets a dangerous precedent.

The low bar of evidence upon which the committee made recommendations could have serious consequences, especially if it is extended to the future review of the childhood immunization schedule as they have indicated is their plan. ACIP recommendations set the foundation for vaccine coverage under public and private insurance and the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program; the recommendations of this committee directly impact vaccine access and affordability and must be made with a higher level of scientific rigor than was demonstrated during the June meeting.

Voices for Vaccines: Historically, ACIP is an independent panel of vaccine specialists that meets at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). After the FDA licenses a vaccine, ACIP evaluates clinical-trial findings, post-marketing surveillance, and disease-burden data, then votes on how and for whom the product should be used. Its recommendations shape the US immunization schedule that physicians, pharmacists, insurers, and public health programs use to determine who gets vaccines and when they get them. In the past, 17 voting members, including pediatricians, infectious disease scientists, and infectious-disease physicians, with 1 seat reserved for a consumer representative, were selected through an open Department of Health and Human Services process. They filed financial disclosures each year and recused themselves from decisions where they had conflicts of interest.

To share additional organizational statements, please share a link via email to: communications@nfid.org. 

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Bethesda, MD (June 26, 2025)— Immunization policy decisions must be guided by science. The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is gravely concerned with the flawed process that occurred during the recent Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) meeting on June 25-26, 2025.

Deviation from the long-standing evidence-based process that has historically guided ACIP deliberations undermines transparency and trust, risks legitimizing misinformation, and is harmful to public health. A process that includes input from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) experts, working groups, and trusted scientific and medical organizations, has been critical to ensuring rigorous, transparent, evidence-based recommendations that the public and healthcare professionals can trust.

Voting on critical policy recommendations without due process that includes a thorough, balanced, and vetted review of available data by qualified experts invalidates the results and leads to confusion and distrust of recommendations. “Vaccines are among the greatest public health accomplishments,” said NFID Medical Director Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD. “The process we witnessed instills doubt rather than builds confidence and calls into question the legitimacy of the votes taken, including the vote on thimerosal in influenza (flu) vaccines.”

There is no new scientific evidence warranting a change in recommendations for thimerosal-containing flu vaccines. Thimerosal has been used for decades in the US as a preservative to prevent the growth of dangerous germs. Based on multiple peer-reviewed scientific studies in the US and other countries, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) concluded that thimerosal-containing vaccines are safe and have a long history of preventing contamination.

The virtually non-existent risks of thimerosal in flu vaccines pale in comparison to the real risks posed by flu each year in the US. There were 250 US pediatric flu deaths during the 2024-2025 season, the deadliest non-pandemic flu season on record for US children. Flu vaccination saves lives and helps prevent serious flu-related complications. CDC preliminary estimates show that during the 2024-2025 season, flu vaccination prevented 12.5 million flu-related illnesses, 5.7 million medical visits, and 240,000 hospitalizations.

Any changes in immunization recommendations, including recommendations on COVID-19 vaccines, maternal and pediatric RSV immunization, and the use of thimerosal in flu vaccines, must be based on science and evaluated using a consistent and rigorous process. Immunization is an essential tool in protecting against serious outcomes of preventable diseases.

NFID strongly supports the use of evidence-based guidance reviewed by qualified experts, within CDC and externally, to inform public health policy, and we will work to preserve equitable access, choice, and public and private insurance coverage to life-saving immunizations to protect the health of people across the US.

About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases

Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. NFID has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum transparency seal from Candid/GuideStar. For more information, and to access trusted science-based resources on immunization for both healthcare professionals and the public, visit www.nfid.org.

Contact: Diana Olson, communications@nfid.org

Read additional insights from NFID partner organizations 

In recognition of Men’s Health Month, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) encourages all men to take charge of their own health. Special thanks to Salvatore J. Giorgianni, PharmD, vice president of Healthy Men, Inc., an NFID partner organization, for this guest blog post about the importance of disease prevention for men. Giorgianni is a pharmacist and chair-emeritus of the American Public Health Association Men’s Health Caucus.

Why is focusing on men’s health so important?

Men make up nearly half the US population—and just as a gardener would not ignore half a garden and expect a full harvest, we cannot ignore men’s health and expect to see healthy families and communities. It is easy to put off preventive care when life gets busy, but taking time to stay healthy makes sense. Men who take steps to protect their own health also help protect their families, including children, as well as their coworkers and communities.

Staying up to date on all recommended vaccines and taking other steps to prevent illness helps ensure men are ready for what matters most—whether it’s showing up for loved ones, handling responsibilities, or simply enjoying life. No one wants to be flat on their back when they could be out living a full life.

Why are vaccination rates often lower among men than women?

Men tend to have about half as many wellness visits as women, which means fewer opportunities to talk with a healthcare professional about prevention, including vaccines. Some men may think getting sick with influenza (flu) or COVID-19 is not a big deal, but these illnesses can be serious, especially for those who live with older family members or work with others at higher risk of serious complications. Men may not realize how miserable shingles can be or how dangerous measles is to their reproductive health.

There are many reasons men may skip vaccinations—limited access, busy schedules, or simply not prioritizing their own health. Men generally do not like being told what to do, which has impacted COVID-19 vaccination rates because some men felt pressured (either by their spouse or public health experts) to get vaccinated.

But the bottom line is, being informed and in control of your health is empowering.

What role can pharmacists play in increasing vaccination rates?

Access is key. Community pharmacies represent a vaccination opportunity in many parts of the US, including rural and underserved communities. A wide range of vaccines are available in community pharmacies, making it easy and convenient to get vaccinated—often without having to make an appointment or wait in a doctor’s office. Many insurers currently cover vaccines in pharmacies, and pharmacists are a great source of information about vaccines.

Where can expecting and new dads go for more information on vaccines?

Expecting (and new) dads are typically very protective of mom and baby and one of the most important ways to help protect both is through vaccination. Women routinely receive guidance on vaccines during obstetric care visits, but dads-to-be rarely get the same counseling. Yet, protecting the health of your family is a big part of becoming a dad. If men have questions or concerns about vaccines during pregnancy, they can talk with a trusted healthcare professional (including their partner’s OB/GYN) as a great way to get accurate information and help ensure that they are doing what is best for their family.

What other resources are available on men’s health?

The mission of Healthy Men, Inc. is to reimagine healthcare in a “guy-friendly” way and provide resources to empower boys and men to actively engage in their health, including:

• Vaccine Checkpoints, a 1-page guide updated regularly to reflect new vaccine recommendations
• Top 10 Reasons Expectant Dads Should Get a Flu Vaccine

When it comes to your health, good decisions start with good information. It is important for men to talk with trusted healthcare professionals to learn about the benefits and risks of vaccination, and make sure they have the facts they need to make good decisions to help protect themselves, their families, and their communities. Vaccination is one powerful way to do just that. Men want to make their own choices, and the best way to do so is by becoming knowledgeable and staying informed.

Learn more about men’s health at healthymen.org.

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases:

• Like and follow NFID on social media
• Follow Healthy Men on Facebook, X, Instagram, and LinkedIn
• Listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast
• Subscribe to receive future NFID Updates

Alliance for Aging Research (AAR): While done under the guise of restoring public trust in vaccines, the abrupt move by Secretary Kennedy to replace everyone currently serving on the CDC ACIP with his chosen people will further corrode public trust in medical science and government. ACIP has consistently been a trusted advisory body that closely followed administrative rules regarding conflicts of interest, rotating terms, and transparency, and we are very concerned that this move signals that impartiality may soon be replaced by a fealty to the Secretary. According to the CDC criteria for participation in ACIP, voting members must be highly qualified and must also adhere to a strict conflict of interest policy that requires disclosure of any potential conflicts at the start of their term and at the beginning of each ACIP meeting. Members who have disclosed conflicts are prohibited from participating in activities and votes on that topic. Information on the individual ACIP members and conflicts is available to the public. We fear that this new clean sweep with no overlap will likely lead to a committee that will consist entirely of members who have no previous experience with the ACIP or with geriatrics. We hope that the new committee maintains this expertise and remains nonpartisan. ACIP recommendations of FDA-approved or authorized vaccines are fundamental to ensuring that vaccines are not only available but also covered under both public and private insurance programs. We call on policymakers to intervene in the ACIP disruption. Do not be fooled—Secretary Kennedy is not advancing “public trust in vaccines,” but is instead undoing 50 years of public health achievement.
—AAR President and CEO Sue Peschin, MHS

American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP): AAFP is outraged by the  decision of the HHS Secretary to remove all 17 members of ACIP, undermining vaccine safety and public health. This dangerous move erodes decades of established processes, discards the expertise of the medical and scientific community, and delays getting lifesaving vaccines to patients. We will not stand by while core institutions and systems that protect the health of patients, families and communities are undermined.

American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP): AAP is deeply troubled and alarmed by the mass firing of all 17 experts on ACIP. This unprecedented action, against the backdrop of recent contradictory announcements from the administration about vaccines, will cause even more confusion and uncertainty for families. We are witnessing an escalating effort to silence independent medical expertise and stoke distrust in lifesaving vaccines. Creating confusion around proven vaccines endangers families’ health and contributes to the spread of preventable diseases. This move undermines the trust pediatricians have built over decades with our patients and leaves us without critical scientific expertise we rely on. Children and families must be able to access the immunizations they need to stay healthy. Our vaccine infrastructure must include this critical step of nonpartisan, expert review and discussion of the science and clinical recommendations for individual vaccines. Families and children will be the ones to pay the price for this decision.
—AAP President Susan Kressly, MD

American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA): In a time of rising vaccine hesitancy and growing outbreaks of preventable disease, this moment demands stability and greater trust in science and healthcare providers—not less. For decades, the medical community and the communities we serve have relied on ACIP to safely guide vaccine recommendations. The decision to suddenly remove all 17 members of the CDC independent advisory committee in one sweeping move is deeply damaging to confidence in vaccines that have proven to be safe for decades and in the healthcare providers who counsel patients and their families about immunization decisions every day. For the health and wellbeing of communities everywhere, it is imperative that the Administration acts promptly to reconstruct the committee through an open and transparent process that includes diverse provider voices, including PAs. AAPA urges the administration to protect the long-established stability in vaccine recommendations in order to protect the public against vaccine-preventable diseases.
—AAPA President and Chair of the Board of Directors Jason Prevelige, DMSc, MBA, PA-C

American College Health Association (ACHA): ACHA is deeply troubled by the recent removal of all 17 sitting members on ACIP. With the removal of these advisors and appointment of just 8 new members, we are also concerned that ACIP will no longer have at its disposal the extensive public health and vaccine expertise on which it has relied for many years. This may compromise the capacity to provide credible, science- and data-driven vaccination guidance and risks undermining public trust, with serious implications for all communities, including college communities. Health and well-being are foundational to student success. Vaccines keep students healthy and thus engaged and on track in their academic studies—whether at a university, a community college, or a trade school. College campuses are dynamic, intergenerational communities that include students, faculty, staff, older learners, and non-traditional students such as veterans, pregnant individuals, and students with underlying health conditions. These populations rely on robust public health measures to ensure their safety and continued access to education. The overwhelming evidence in favor of immunization remains consistent, as approved vaccines are proven to be safe and efficacious for preventing disease. Outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases—such as influenza, measles, mumps, meningitis, pertussis, polio, varicella, HPV, and COVID-19—have been mitigated for years, and decades in many cases, by strategies based primarily on the proactive deployment and administration of vaccines. Following science-based vaccination recommendations is essential not only for protecting individual health but also for preserving the collective safety, stability, and accessibility of our nation’s higher education institutions and the communities they serve. Since its inception 61 years ago, ACIP has been comprised of trusted experts who base their advice on sound science and data. ACHA urges ACIP to uphold its commitment to protecting public health, maintaining public trust, and providing vaccination recommendations that are evidence-based.

American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP): The undersigned* national nursing organizations express our strong concerns over the decision to dismiss all members of ACIP. ACIP is critically important in making recommendations on the safety and efficacy of vaccines that result in the development of the official US immunization schedules for adults and children. This unprecedented action could negatively impact our healthcare system. Each day healthcare providers, including nurse practitioners and registered nurses, educate patients on the importance of vaccines. We are concerned that this dismissal will further erode trust in the vaccine recommendation process. This process must be transparent, data driven, and inclusive of registered nurses and all clinicians who counsel patients on vaccinations.

*American Association of Nurse Practitioners, American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board, American Academy of Nursing, American Association of Colleges of Nursing, American Association of Critical-Care Nurses, American College of Nurse-Midwives, American Nurses Association, Gerontological Advanced Practice Nurses Association, National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists, National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health, National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners, National Certification Corporation, National League for Nursing, National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties

American College of Physicians (ACP): ACP is highly concerned and outraged about the announcement dismissing all 17 ACIP members. This announcement, coupled with the recent, preemptive actions HHS took on the COVID-19 vaccines that circumvented the standard, transparent vaccine review process, interferes with the practice of evidence-based medicine and destabilizes a trusted source and its evidence-based process for helping guide decision-making for vaccines to protect the public health in our country. The announcement will seriously erode public confidence in our government’s ability to ensure the health of the US public, and it will endanger the safety, welfare, and lives of our patients. We call on the administration to immediately reverse course.
—ACP President Jason M. Goldman, MD, ACP Liaison to ACIP

American Pharmacists Association (APhA): Pharmacists and the public rely upon ACIP for scientifically backed recommendations and information to support balancing their health risk with choice. APhA strongly urges that the voting membership of ACIP be comprised of scientists, researchers, and clinicians—including pharmacists—who possess the clinical and scientific acumen to provide evidence-based recommendations for vaccines, in a non-partisan manner. APhA recognizes there is risk and choice when it comes to any medication, including vaccines. Pharmacists consistently work with patients to balance their individual health conditions and risks with choice of therapy, whether it be medications or immunizations. It is highly concerning that removing 17 scientists overnight eliminates the historical knowledge, scientific training, and clinical expertise required to equip pharmacists and the public to make appropriate choices for health based upon the risk.

American Public Health Association (APHA): The action to retire all members of ACIP and install a new slate, instead of allowing people to finish their term, is a coup. ACIP members are some of the most qualified individuals to evaluate vaccines. They possess deep understanding of science and were vetted for conflicts of interest prior to appointment. Removing all ACIP members at once is not how democracies work and it is not good for the health of the nation. The HHS Secretary says he wants to restore trust and transparency. This action immediately raises concern over the ability of any slate of committee members appointed by the Administration to be viewed as impartial to his views on any decision, and therefore their actions will be suspect and likely mistrusted.
—APHA Executive Director Georges C. Benjamin, MD

Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO): ACIP is vital to ensuring scientific rigor and third-party experts inform decisions about the safe and effective use of vaccines in the US. Under the law, ACIP also plays a critical role determining how the US public accesses immunizations. We are greatly concerned about the uncertainty created by the abrupt dismissal of the serving committee members and the loss of years of experience, especially less than 3 weeks before the next ACIP meeting, with consequential votes on recommendations that will affect access to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza (flu), human papillomavirus (HPV), and other important vaccines. While the advisors serve on the ACIP at the selection and appointment by the HHS Secretary, the removal of committee members will cause significant disruption in this critical process. Immunization reviews take place through working groups over many months, culminating with discussion during a public meeting. A wholesale change of this manner will negatively affect the ability of ACIP to deliberate and make well-informed recommendations, putting US lives at risk.
—BIO President and CEO John F. Crowley

California Immunization Coalition: The California Immunization Coalition joins professional groups across the country in denouncing the HHS Secretary choice to fire all members of ACIP to install his own selection of members. This action does nothing to restore trust in the community. To the contrary, it creates more confusion and obstacles for the majority of Americans who are grateful to have vaccines to protect us from diseases and preserve our quality and length of life. ACIP members have faithfully and professionally represented the interests of public health for over 60 years. There is zero evidence of compromise or conflict of interest. Current and past members of ACIP participate in a thorough vetting and review process and are among the most experienced and knowledgeable infectious disease experts in the world. This action will undermine trust and will impact public health efforts to control preventable diseases.

Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA): Allegations about the integrity of ACIP are completely unfounded and will have a significant negative impact on people of all ages. Scientific recommendations about infectious diseases and vaccines that the public can trust require established experts to make them. ACIP is a highly qualified group of experts that has always operated with transparency and a commitment to protecting public health. Unilaterally removing an entire panel of experts is reckless, shortsighted, and severely harmful.
—IDSA President Tina Tan, MD

National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (NAPNAP): NAPNAP is deeply disturbed by statements made by the HHS Secretary. Such statements undermine the comprehensive, scholarly analysis that members of the committee and its workgroups devote to every vaccine decision. For decades, ACIP has been managed in a transparent manner with publicly available agendas, open meetings and public comment periods. Erosion in vaccine science can be traced to misinformation spread on social media, which has been repeatedly disproved. NAPNAP believes the decision to terminate the volunteer service of current ACIP members with the stated goal of restoring public trust will only increase vaccine misinformation. NAPNAP supports all evidence-based efforts to have every infant, child, adolescent and adult receive all age-appropriate immunizations on time. Vaccines are safe and effective, have undergone a thorough review and recommendation process, and are carefully surveilled using multiple safety surveillance processes to detect if changes are needed.

National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID): Federal advisory committees, including ACIP, are a cornerstone of the rigorous, transparent process that helps ensure public trust in vaccine recommendations. Their work supports timely responses to current and emerging threats, strengthens vaccine confidence, and guides policies that protect individuals and communities. Any disruptions to the work of, or significant changes to, these committees, including the recent removal of all 17 current members of ACIP, jeopardize public health as well as the transparency and credibility of science-based recommendations. NFID strongly supports the continued use of expert, evidence-based guidance to inform public health policy and protect the health of people across the US.
—NFID Medical Director Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD (NFID Liaison to ACIP)

National Health Council (NHC): The decision to remove and replace the entire ACIP membership risks undermining public confidence and destabilizing a process that patients and caregivers, especially those with chronic illnesses, disabilities, and compromised immune systems, rely on for protection against infectious diseases. Vaccination schedules must be grounded in scientific evidence, developed transparently, and implemented consistently. Disruptions to this process could erode public trust, deter vaccine uptake, and exacerbate hesitancy, particularly in communities already facing structural barriers to care. Moreover, insurers and public health programs depend on ACIP’s guidance to make timely, consistent coverage decisions. Weakening this advisory function could delay access to recommended vaccines, jeopardize public health, and put the most medically vulnerable at heightened risk. We urge HHS to reaffirm its commitment to a science-based, stable advisory process for immunization policy. Ensuring that ACIP is composed of qualified experts, selected through transparent vetting and free from conflicts of interest, is critical to protecting both public health and the integrity of our nation’s immunization infrastructure.
—NHC Chief Executive Officer Randall L. Rutta

National Medical Association (NMA): The removal of all members of the CDC ACIP by the HHS Secretary is a devastating attack on our nation’s public health system. The panel, which operates in public and includes physicians and healthcare experts, makes science-backed decisions after reviewing vaccine data. Their work impacts millions of Americans by determining vaccine schedules and availability. Vaccines and access to them have been one of the most important public health tools in preventing significant disease and death in the US. This latest move further undercuts public trust in vaccines and our healthcare system by creating confusion for patients and their healthcare providers. NMA, which has a representative on ACIP, condemns this ongoing destabilization of our nation’s public health system which puts millions of lives at risk.
—NMA President Virginia A. Caine, MD

National Vaccine Law Association (NVLA): NVLA shares the concerns raised by national medical associations and other partners with respect to the recent purging of all 17 voting members of ACIP, and calls for the immediate reappointment of those experts to the committee. It is critical that ACIP be composed of leading experts who are broadly recognized in their fields and who operate independently of partisan influence. The prevention of infectious diseases through vaccination is a non-partisan issue and recommendations made around the use of vaccines must be made according to vetted scientific evidence.

Partnership to Fight Infectious Disease (PFID): The US is a healthier country because of vaccines, and ACIP has played a critical role in publicly discussing, evaluating, and formulating vaccine recommendations. Without question, this process has strengthened Americans’ protection against preventable diseases. ACIP operates with tremendous transparency. Today, all 17 independent experts were unceremoniously dismissed through an op-ed. In justifying this unprecedented decision, HHS cited an investigation from 25 years ago that predated every current ACIP member by more than two decades and, ironically, resulted in stronger policies that have been in place since then. Experience is not a conflict of interest. ACIP’s experts represent the best and brightest in the US medical field, carefully making decisions based on the latest evidence. Meetings are video-streamed live and archived for the public. Committee members are vetted for any conflicts of interest. Their contributions are highly respected by US healthcare providers, public health experts, and the public in general. We call on policymakers to reverse ACIP’s upheaval and ensure science, not sentiment, guides the government’s responsibility to protect Americans from preventable diseases.

SAFE Communities Coalition: In a deeply troubling move, Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has removed all 17 members of ACIP—a respected, independent panel of scientific experts who have advised CDC on vaccine policy for more than 60 years. ACIP has helped determine the childhood vaccine schedule, guided providers, and ensured access to safe, effective immunizations through insurance coverage. Its work has protected generations from measles, polio, pneumococcal disease, and other deadly threats. That protection is now at risk. Without expert guidance, vaccines may become harder to access—especially in vulnerable communities. Insurance coverage could be disrupted. And preventable diseases like measles and whooping cough will continue to surge, endangering children, immunocompromised individuals, and pregnant people. CDC has stopped issuing routine disease alerts and has scaled back public health communications. Americans are being left in the dark—without the timely information they need to protect themselves and their families. If Congress fails to act, the results will be felt in rising illness, missed vaccinations, overwhelmed hospitals, growing economic strain, and needless loss of life. SAFE Communities Coalition brings together families, providers, advocates, and public health professionals to defend access to vaccines and fight misinformation. Our 11 Families for Vaccines chapters are working at the grassroots level across the country to educate lawmakers, counter disinformation, and advance strong vaccine laws in every state. This work has never been more urgent.

Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine (SAHM): SAHM is deeply alarmed by the abrupt removal of all 17 members of the CDC ACIP. The independent, evidence-based process of ACIP has long provided the scientific foundation for vaccine recommendations that protect the health of adolescents, young adults, and the broader community. The appointment of all new members at one time is a significant disruption to the work and continuity of the committee’s scientific evaluation. Additionally, some of the new members do not have the traditional infectious disease or vaccinology expertise expected of ACIP voting members, and several have previously expressed positions inconsistent with established vaccine science. This unprecedented action undermines public confidence, introduces confusion at a time of rising vaccine hesitancy and outbreaks of preventable disease, and risks eroding trust in lifesaving immunizations. Adolescents and young adults—already vulnerable to gaps in care and disparities in vaccine access—depend on policies shaped by transparent, expert, and scientific evidence-based review. SAHM urges the administration to restore the independent, science-driven ACIP process and to ensure that voting members collectively possess demonstrated expertise in infectious diseases, vaccinology, immunology, public health, research, and primary care. This breadth of expertise and experience is essential so that the committee can evaluate the science in an unbiased, evidence-based manner, free from misinformation. Safeguarding the integrity of ACIP is critical to protect the health of all, especially our nation’s adolescents and young adults.

Society for Healthcare Epidemiology (SHEA): SHEA appreciates the HHS focus on restoring public trust in vaccines and applauds any and all efforts to increase vaccine uptake in the US to protect public health. However, we do not believe recent ACIP  members were conflicted; rather, we have consistently observed through both our role as an advisory member of ACIP and as a professional medical society, that the ACIP recommendations were rooted in rigorous, evidence-based deliberations. SHEA has confidence in the integrity of the ACIP conflict of interest policies and processes, which are designed to ensure transparency and uphold public trust in its decision-making. ACIP has long served as a trusted body guiding national immunization policy. We are proud to have worked alongside them in advancing public health and encouraging a transparent and deliberative process of vaccination recommendations. We are deeply concerned that efforts to restructure or replace ACIP risk undermining a trusted, science-driven process that has long guided national immunization policy. We urge HHS to prioritize transparency, scientific rigor, and public health expertise as it considers these changes—and we remain committed to defending a strong, evidence-based immunization framework in the US.

Vaccinate Your Family:  Vaccinate Your Family is deeply concerned by the decision to remove all 17 members of ACIP, a move that puts vaccine access and insurance coverage at serious risk. ACIP recommendations serve as the foundation for determining which vaccines must be covered—without out-of-pocket costs—by both public and private insurance programs. This includes coverage under the Affordable Care Act and the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program, which collectively protect millions. Disrupting the work of ACIP introduces dangerous uncertainty about which vaccines will continue to be covered and whether families will have to pay out of pocket for routine immunizations. As vaccination rates for children and adolescents decline and measles outbreaks spread, this is not the time to introduce confusion about coverage or access. Parents need to know that recommended vaccines will remain available, accessible, and affordable. Vaccinate Your Family urges HHS and CDC leadership to immediately clarify how ACIP will continue to function as an independent, evidence-based body, and to reaffirm their commitment to preserving universal vaccine coverage through public and commercial insurance. Lives depend on it.

Voices for Vaccines: HHS Secretary recently dismissed all 17 current ACIP members and said he will pick replacements. Many worry that swapping out the entire panel at once could delay future vaccine guidance and erode the trust ACIP has built over decades. What does this mean for you right now?

• The current US vaccine schedule has not changed. Your child’s well-visit shots and your own boosters are still recommended and still available.
• Daycare and school requirements, which are set at the state level, remain the same.
• The next ACIP public meeting may be postponed until new members are seated, so upcoming votes (for example, on this fall’s updated flu and COVID-19 formulations) could be delayed.

To share additional organizational statements, please email a link to: communications@nfid.org. 

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Can You Still Get a COVID-19 Vaccine at Any Age? Health officials announce changes that will likely curb access to shots for some people under age 65. Robert H. Hopkins Jr., MD, medical director of the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID), says the changes could “raise additional concerns in the healthcare professional community about the value of vaccinating people at all who are under 65, if they don’t have major health conditions … the framework also excludes people who want to get the vaccine to reduce their risk of long COVID, which affects more than 20 million Americans.” According to the CDC, research shows that COVID vaccination is the best way to prevent long COVID, including in children. Source: AARP

4 Biggest Handwashing Mistakes That Could Increase Germs and Viruses: Proper handwashing could save a million lives a year—and yet many people are doing it improperly, often due to misconceptions surrounding the practice. Doctors recommend washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds to reduce the spread of infectious diseases. “We need to reinforce the importance of this simple tool,” said NFID Medical Director Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD. The NFID 2025 State of Handwashing Report  provides details on Americans’ handwashing habits (and mistakes). Source: Fox News

Q&A: Myths, Misinformation Surrounding Hepatitis Vaccines: Amid a noticeable mistrust in healthcare information, especially regarding the effectiveness of vaccines, pharmacists must stay equipped with useful ways of counseling patients hesitant to receive vaccines. For hepatitis vaccines specifically, pharmacists must navigate myths of hep A and B vaccines causing injury and promote the safety and effectiveness of immunization schedules. “… Remember, hepatitis B was our first cancer vaccine. It actually prevents cancer. So, when you’re thinking about positive messages to counter some of the myths around it, most everyone can get around prevention of cancer,” said Jeffery A. Goad, PharmD, MPH, President of the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID). Source: Drug Topics

Computational Model Maps Over 67,000 Malaria Epitopes to Improve Vaccine Targeting: A new computational pipeline developed at the University of Maryland School of Medicine may help improve malaria vaccine development by addressing 2 major challenges: the genetic diversity of Plasmodium falciparum and variability in human immune genes across African populations. The model was presented at the 2025 NFID Annual Conference on Vaccinology Research. Source: ContagionLive

What’s Happening with Measles in the US as of May? The best way to control measles is by making sure you and your family are up to date on all vaccines, including measles. 2 doses of the measles vaccine is highly effective and safe. Once you get the measles, there are no approved antiviral treatments. Clinical care includes supportive therapy and possibly immune globulin (antibodies to the measles virus) for severe cases. Vitamin A does not prevent measles virus infection and is not a substitute for vaccination. A hospitalized child may receive vitamin A as part of supportive therapy to help their immune system fight the infection. Parents should never attempt to treat their child at home with high-dose vitamin A. Source: Those Nerdy Girls

Parents Are Receiving Mixed Messages About Measles from RFK Jr.: Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is more directly promoting measles vaccinations following the death of a second unvaccinated child. But he continues to highlight remedies that medical experts say do not prevent or treat the virus. As the number of measles cases grows around the country, experts worry that parents and other caregivers are getting mixed messaging about the safety of vaccines. According to Patricia A. Stinchfield, RN, MS, CPNP, an infectious disease nurse practitioner and NFID Immediate Past-President, “There is no specific treatment for measles, though doctors can try to treat secondary symptoms that might emerge from an infection. The way that it’s being framed is confusing and misleading and kind of off the main message, which should be to vaccinate, vaccinate, vaccinate.” Source: The 19th

Maternal RSV Vaccines Show Promise for Infant Protection but Raise Safety Concerns: Maternal RSV vaccines have shown effectiveness in preventing lower respiratory tract infections and RSV-related hospitalizations in infants, according to a new meta-analysis presented at the 2025 NFID Annual Conference on Vaccinology Research. However, safety concerns associated with one vaccine candidate have led to calls for enhanced monitoring in future maternal vaccine trials. Source: ContagionLive

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases:

• Like and follow NFID on social media 
• Listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast
• Subscribe to receive future NFID Updates

Federal advisory committees are a cornerstone of the rigorous, transparent process that helps ensure public trust in health recommendations. Their work supports timely responses to current and emerging threats, strengthens vaccine confidence, and guides policies that protect individuals and communities.

Any disruptions to the work of, or significant changes to, these committees jeopardize public health as well as the transparency and credibility of science-based recommendations.

NFID remains committed to advancing the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases through education, collaboration, and advocacy. We strongly support the continued use of expert, evidence-based guidance to inform public health policy and protect the health of people across the US.

About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases
Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. Visit www.nfid.org for additional information.

1 out of 5 (20%) admit to not washing their hands, even though handwashing can help prevent approximately 80% of infectious diseases

Bethesda, MD (May 5, 2025)—Today, on World Hand Hygiene Day, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is launching the Hands In For Handwashing campaign to raise awareness about the importance of handwashing to help stop the spread of infectious diseases. The campaign includes the 2025 NFID State of Handwashing Report, based on a new national survey of US adult handwashing knowledge and behaviors.

The report offers unique insights into where, when, and why US adults are most likely to wash their hands, and when they forget or choose not to do so. Following the worst influenza (flu) season in more than a decade and several norovirus outbreaks across the US, the NFID report reveals that while US adults say they know how to wash their hands properly, their habits often suggest otherwise.

 Key survey findings:

• 6 out of 10 (62%) survey respondents correctly answered that washing their hands with soap and water for 20 seconds effectively reduces the spread of germs
• Yet nearly half (48%) of US adults admit to forgetting or choosing not to wash their hands at key times, like after visiting grocery stores, restaurants or coffee shops, or a healthcare setting (doctor’s office, pharmacy, clinic, or hospital)
• While forgetting is the most common reason reported for not washing hands, 1 in 5 (20%) actively choose not to wash their hands, citing reasons like it being unnecessary, a lack of time, or a concern about drying out their hands
• Of those who did not wash their hands with soap and water, men are more likely to simply forget, while women are more likely to use alternatives like hand sanitizer
• The top 3 situations that prompt US adults to wash their hands are: after using the bathroom (69%), handling food (48%), and handling human or animal waste (39%)
  • Only 30% of respondents reported that they are most likely to wash their hands after coughing or sneezing, which is a concern, given how easily respiratory diseases such as flu can spread

“Given the importance of handwashing in infectious disease prevention, the stakes are high—improving hand hygiene can help improve health for all,” said NFID Medical Director Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD. “While handwashing is an important strategy for disease prevention, and should be complementary to vaccination, it is a critical and often overlooked tool.” Estimates show that if everyone routinely washed their hands, about 1 million lives could be saved around the world each year.

According to the survey, 55% of US adults wash their hands primarily to stay healthy and avoid getting sick. In addition, 68% of respondents said that avoiding spreading germs to others was among their top 3 reasons for handwashing, showing concern for protecting others in the community.

“Proper handwashing puts the power of health in our own hands,” said NFID Immediate Past-President Patricia A. Stinchfield, RN, MS, CPNP. “Handwashing is an easy and effective way to prioritize your health and the health of those around you.”

For some, handwashing is a seasonal behavior–1 in 4 (26%) respondents reported washing their hands more frequently in the fall and winter, even though germs can spread throughout the year. The survey also found that 33% of respondents report washing their hands more now than they did during the COVID-19 pandemic.

As part of the campaign, NFID is also hitting the road with a Clean Hands Caravan, a mobile handwashing station to make it easier for people to wash their hands in places where germs can spread.

“The caravan was created to make handwashing accessible and visible during key moments in everyday life when it is important to wash hands,” said NFID Chief Executive Officer Marla Dalton, PE, CAE. “We wanted to grab people’s attention with vibrant colors, eye-catching graphics, and memorable slogans to bring some excitement to an important but sometimes overlooked habit taught in kindergarten—washing your hands.”

The Clean Hands Caravan tour launched at the Washington Spirit soccer game in Washington, DC on May 2, 2025. Additional tour stops include the World Barbeque Cooking Contest in Memphis, TN, from May 14-17, 2025, and the Atlanta Jazz Festival in Atlanta, GA, from May 24-26, 2025.

“NFID encourages everyone to wash their hands to help stop the spread of infectious diseases, and we encourage organizations to join the Hands In For Handwashing movement to support healthier lives for all,” Dalton said.

For more information about the 2025 NFID State of Handwashing report, and to access handwashing resources throughout the year, visit: www.nfid.org/handwashing

About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases

Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. NFID has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum transparency seal from Candid/GuideStar. For more information, visit www.nfid.org.

About the Survey

The survey was funded by NFID and conducted by NORC at the University of Chicago as part of the AmeriSpeak Omnibus®, a monthly survey using the NORC probability-based panel designed to be representative of the US household population. The US survey received responses from 3,587 respondents from all 50 states and the District of Columbia via online and telephone interviews using landlines and cell phones. Data was collected in November and December 2024 and March 2025. The margin of sampling error is ±2 percentage points for all respondents.

Contact: Ryan Horey, rhorey@webershandwick.com

View Campaign Media Resources

As the mother of a 26-year-old daughter with autism and legal guardian of her older brother with autism, she is a natural advocate who has served on multiple federal advisory bodies on autism. In 2009, she founded ASF, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting people with autism and their families by funding scientific research to understand the causes of autism and develop better treatments. ASF is a partner organization of the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) and shares the vision of healthier lives for all through effective prevention and treatment.

• 2025 Annual Conference on Vaccinology Research Moves Online
• NFID Collaborations and Partner Updates
• Updated Resources (webinars, podcasts, blogs)
• Reader Poll
• And More …

Message From Headquarters

A Lifelong Champion of Vaccine Safety—Kathryn M. Edwards, MD

“People need to understand that safety is our business, that I take it very seriously, as do the other vaccinologists who are studying vaccines. If there are any side effects, we want to be able to identify those who might be at risk for them.” 

Breaking the Cycle of Crisis to Complacency with Julie L. Gerberding, MD, MPH

“We don’t consistently plan, prepare, exercise, and build on our preparedness capability. We move through the crisis, we document lessons learned, and then we become complacent. We need to have institutional, governmental, strategic, ongoing evolution of our public health competency, in the same way that we progressively build our national defense system.”

Championing Global Health Equity with Katherine L. O’Brien, MD, MPH

“During the pandemic, every country was ready to introduce vaccines at about the same time. The slowness of deployment in low-income countries was not about their readiness to deploy. It wasn’t about the demand for vaccines. It was entirely about the availability of supply. And the reason that supply did not go the way that we hoped it would go is vaccine nationalism.”

Journey to Patient Advocate and Public Health Champion with Leana Wen, MD, MSc

“We’ve got to go back to a core principle of public health, which is to meet people where they are. And we need to listen, we need to understand where people are coming from, we need to meet them where they are and help them understand … there are things that you can do that can make a difference short term for the individuals you serve, that can also contribute long term as well to the larger population.”

Health Disparities and Vaccine Hesitancy with Patricia N. Whitley-Williams, MD

“It was devastating to see the disparity and the toll that the COVID-19 pandemic took on communities of color. The most important thing is to engage communities of color, engage those that live in the community, make them partners in solving the problem.”

Downloaded nearly 12,000 times in more than 100 countries, Infectious IDeas goes beyond the science to explore the personal stories behind the people who do the work. Episodes drop on the 1st Wednesday of each month.

Listen on Apple Podcasts

Listen on Spotify

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter), like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram and Bluesky, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates. 

Bird Flu

What is Bird Flu? Here’s Everything You Need to Know about the Virus Affecting Chickens and Dairy Cattle: The H5N1 bird flu virus has spread among a variety of bird species, including chickens, ducks, turkeys, geese, and many migratory wild birds. There have also been cases in humans and other mammals, including dairy cows, seals, bears, and cats. While the virus has not shown the ability to be transmitted human-to-human at this point, some experts worry about the possibility of a pandemic if the virus continues to spread widely. “The risk to the general population is essentially zero,” said NFID spokesperson William Schaffner, MD. People should exercise caution in their interactions with wild birds and avoid drinking raw milk. “Bird flu is a theoretical risk. Seasonal flu is a real risk,” Schaffner said. Source: Yahoo!News

Measles

Can Vitamin A Help Manage Measles? What We Know (and What We Don’t): Parents of children sick with measles and adults with measles should never decide to take vitamin A supplements on their own, says NFID Immediate Past-President Patricia (Patsy) Stinchfield, RN, MS, CPNP. “When prescribed by a knowledgeable provider—usually for hospitalized children on the day of diagnosis and a second dose on day 2—vitamin A is considered supportive management, much like giving oxygen to someone with pneumonia,” says Stinchfield. “It doesn’t cure or treat the virus, but supports immune function while the patient is in the acute stage of the illness.” Source: Everyday Health

Is an MMR Booster for Adults Necessary?: As measles cases continue to surge, you may be wondering if you’re sufficiently protected or if you could benefit from an MMR vaccine booster. Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination is highly effective at preventing measles infection. Once fully immunized, most people have protection for life. “An unimmunized person exposed to measles has a 90% chance of getting sick, but an immunized person after 2 doses of MMR vaccine has a 97% chance of being protected,” says NFID Immediate Past-President Patsy Stinchfield, RN, MS, CPNP. Source: Everyday Health

False Measles Vaccine Conspiracy Theories Won’t Stop: Here’s Everything You Need to Know: There is a deadly measles outbreak raging in west Texas, and it’s being fueled, at least in part, by anti-vaccine conspiracy theories. Nearly all of the people who have the measles in this Texas outbreak are unvaccinated or their vaccination status is unknown. According to NFID, the MMR vaccine is highly effective in preventing measles, helping to protect the child who is vaccinated, as well as “those unable to be vaccinated who are most vulnerable to serious disease such as immunocompromised patients and infants too young to be vaccinated.” The NFID is clear in its messaging, that “the most important thing parents and others can do to help protect their families and communities from measles is to make sure that everyone who can be vaccinated is vaccinated against measles.” Source: Teen Vogue

Measles, Influenza, and Bird Flu: How to Protect Yourself: So far, 2025 has been a doozy for contagious respiratory ailments in the US and we are having the worst flu season in 15 years. “Measles worries me the most,” said NFID Medical Director Robert H. Hopkins Jr., MD. “It’s the most infectious pathogen we know of.” Each measles-infected person can potentially infect 18 more, who can each go on to infect another 18, and so on. Once exposed, 90% of unvaccinated people will get measles. The disease itself can be severe or even deadly, and it can also lead to long-term complications. Source: WebMD

RSV

Types of Viral Upper and Lower Respiratory Infections: Prevention, Symptoms, and Treatment: Viral respiratory infections are common illnesses that affect the airways, such as the nose, throat and lungs. The infections can be caused by hundreds of different types of viruses, and include influenza, the common cold, COVID-19 and RSV. RSV is more common in children, though adults can get it as well. Almost all children have had an RSV infection by age 2, according to NFID. Symptoms of RSV in adults can seem like a cold, but they can become severe and are sometimes fatal in those who are older or those who have a weakened immune system or heart disease. Source: US News & World Report

Share Your Input

What infectious disease threat most worries you? Share your input via the NFID poll to weigh in on threats of concern.

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter), like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram and Bluesky, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates. 

The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) will host an inspiring panel discussion featuring influential women leaders at the 2025 Annual Conference on Vaccinology Research. Read on for a preview as these trailblazing leaders share invaluable lessons learned throughout their careers, urging the next generation of scientists and public health advocates to take risks, stay curious, and make a difference …

Angela R. Branche, MD
Associate Professor of Medicine
University of Rochester

Advice for the next generation: Take a risk and explore something you don’t feel equipped to do well. No one who has done good work did not at some point have to reach beyond their known potential.   

Favorite quote: A colleague once told me that ‘sometimes you have to stop doing research, just for research’s sake.’ I’ll stop when there’s nothing left to study.

The first influenza infection I can remember—2009 H1N1 which I got working as an intern in a busy Brooklyn hospital—really made an impression! My mentors inspired me to study disease burden and help mitigate the impact of what we were reporting.

Branche with mentors Ann Falsey and Edward Walsh

Dominika Kovacs, MBA
US Franchise Head of Respiratory
Sanofi

Advice for the next generation: Be curious, try new things, and seek to discover your passion.

Favorite quote: “Vaccines save lives; fear endangers them.” -Jeffrey Kluger

After more than a decade working to design therapeutics to treat disease, I had the opportunity to make a career change to focus on prevention and public health. This pivot came shortly after I became a mother, and the prospect of contributing to protecting families worldwide from the complications associated with preventable diseases deeply resonated. 

Photo from travel adventure with family

Kathleen M. Neuzil, MD, MPH
NFID Director
Associate Director for International Research
Fogarty International Center, National Institutes of Health

Advice for the next generation: Challenge yourself and take chances—be bold! Be curious, try new things, and seek to discover your passion.

Favorite quote: Do what you love, have fun along the way, and always travel with beach balls.

I was inspired by many mentors–giants in the field—Bill Schaffner, Barney Graham, Kathy Edwards, Marie Griffin, Peter Wright. To me, as a physician, there is nothing more powerful and motivating than preventing illness and suffering.

Neuzil in Africa

Folake E. Olayinka, MD, MPH
Former Immunization Technical Lead of Global Health
United States Agency for International Development (USAID)

Advice for the next generation: You are a bundle of excellence—and you have unique contributions to make in advancing innovation, increasing access, and solving complex problems. Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t.

Favorite quote: “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.” -Shirley Chisholm

My inspiration comes from the children, families, and communities around the world who benefit from the lifesaving power of vaccines and vaccination, especially in some of the world’s most difficult places to access healthcare.

Olayinka at work

H. Keipp B. Talbot, MD, MPH
Professor of Medicine and Health Policy
Vanderbilt University School of Medicine

Advice for the next generation: Sit at the table! You are just as important as the other people sitting at the table.

Life lesson: It is okay if your house is not perfectly clean.

I actually got interested in vaccines because my father chased a possum up a tree. Truly! You never know what will inspire you. 

Talbot with family at Magic Kingdom Main Street USA

Get Inspired

Learn more from these pioneers and other thought leaders at the 2025 Annual Conference on Vaccinology Research on May 5-7, 2025, in Washington, DC.

Register now to help shape future breakthroughs in vaccinology.

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X /Twitter using the hashtag #NFIDACVR, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram and Bluesky, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates. 

This previously published post by Eduardo Sanchez, MD, MPH, Chief Medical Officer for Prevention at AHA, is still very relevant, as the US is experiencing the highest number of flu cases on record since the 2009 H1N1 (swine flu) pandemic. Sanchez is a nationally recognized expert on chronic and cardiovascular disease management. 

Why is it important for people with heart disease or a history of stroke to receive all recommended vaccines?

Patients with a history of heart disease who contract influenza (flu) or COVID-19 have a greater likelihood of severe or even fatal outcomes, including a heart attack or stroke. There also is a strong correlation between RSV and heart health in more serious cases of RSV. This makes it critically important that those with heart disease or a history of stroke stay up to date on recommended vaccinations. Those who are in the preliminary stages of heart disease or are predisposed to developing heart disease or strokes may also be at greater risk for more severe complications and potentially fatal outcomes from preventable respiratory diseases.

The evidence continues to show that vaccines help prevent or lessen the effects of many diseases, and in those with heart disease or history of stroke, vaccines can save lives.

• People with COVID-19 are 3-8 times more likely to have a heart attack and 3-7 times more likely to have a stroke
• People with heart disease are 6 times more likely to have a heart attack within a week after flu infection
• Heart disease has been linked to 45-63% of adult hospitalizations for RSV

Beyond the benefits to the person receiving the vaccine, how do vaccines help family members and communities?

When you get vaccinated, you are not only protecting yourself from disease but also those around you. In general, getting vaccinated makes you less likely to spread disease to others, helping contribute to immunity for your community as a whole. This is extremely important because this protection is extended to those who may be unable to receive a vaccine for medical or other reasons.

What questions should patients with heart disease ask about recommended vaccinations?

Patients should talk with a trusted healthcare professional about which vaccines are recommended for them, as well as when and where they should receive them. They should also ask if there is any reason why they should not be vaccinated due to contraindications—for example, people who have had severe allergic reactions to vaccines or injectable therapies. Generally, vaccines are administered at pharmacies, workplaces, and primary care offices, but some cardiologists and other specialists may also offer certain vaccines.

What is your key message to healthcare professionals and to people with heart disease who are not currently vaccinated against preventable, potentially deadly diseases?

All healthcare professionals—regardless of their specialty—should encourage their patients to receive recommended vaccines to help protect both the individual patient and the community as a whole. We should not be leaving any opportunity to get vaccinated behind—ever. Vaccines are important, evidence-based interventions that help protect individual and population health, and patients should always be counseled regarding the benefits of vaccination and the importance of staying current on recommended vaccines. Hearing the benefits of vaccination directly from a healthcare professional absolutely nudges patients to take action and get vaccinated.

What resources are available to those looking to learn more about the connection between heart health and vaccination?

The American Heart Association website (www.heart.org) has many resources regarding the importance of vaccinations in patients with heart disease, including:

• • RSV and Heart Health
  • Flu and Pneumonia Prevention
  • COVID-19 and Heart Failure

These numbers highlight a troubling trend—public health strategies that disseminate standardized reminders and messages to the general adult population across the US are simply not enough. Instead, highly tailored, data-driven approaches that reflect dynamics in each of the roughly 42,000 zip codes across the US are essential to breaking through long-standing barriers to vaccination. Although most public health professionals know this, they lack the data and tools to act upon it.

To help meet this need, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is collaborating with Fraym to map US adult intent to get vaccinated against COVID-19, flu, RSV, and pneumococcal disease along with their reasons for or against getting vaccinated.

These unique data are now available for every state, county, and zip code in the US through a user-friendly US Vaccine Uptake Dashboard. This pilot tool provides hyperlocal insights to guide public health leaders in designing effective, community-specific vaccination campaigns. Developed in collaboration with NFID partners, the Association of Immunization Managers (AIM) and the National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO), the dashboard empowers stakeholders to apply resources where they are most needed. NFID provided funding for the pilot project as part of an ongoing commitment to building vaccine confidence and ensuring health equity. 

The dashboard utilizes a machine learning approach to produce novel data and insights, enabling users to: 

• View dynamic heatmaps and statistics related to the proportion of adults who intend to get vaccinated against COVID-19, flu, RSV, and pneumococcal disease 

• Identify key demographic information for each community, including income, education, race/ethnicity, age, and primary languages spoken at home 

• Craft compelling messages to address specific barriers related to vaccination access and motivation 

• Pinpoint the most trusted and influential messenger(s) around immunization information 

• Choose the most appropriate media platforms with significant reach to share those messages 

Armed with this innovative tool, state and local health officials and other immunization advocates can launch effective education and outreach campaigns that deliver important messages to specific population groups in localized geographic areas on the media platforms that they use most. 

Breaking Down Community-Level Barriers

Existing data at a state or county level can mask the community-level differences that influence vaccine uptake. The pilot dashboard uncovers these nuances, demonstrating why a localized approach is essential: 

• Demographics: Areas with higher proportions of racial and ethnic groups, lower education levels, or households living below the poverty line often experience lower vaccination rates. Fraym data highlights significant disparities in flu vaccination intent across neighboring zip codes, frequently reflecting socioeconomic and racial/ethnic divides. 

• Barriers: Vaccine hesitancy in underserved communities may stem from concerns about side effects, while in more affluent and educated areas, hesitancy may arise from other factors. Identifying specific barriers within each community enables more tailored messaging to effectively address concerns with limited budgets. 

• Messengers: The sources of trusted vaccine information also vary by community. Religious leaders or healthcare professionals might be more influential in some areas, while in others, family and friends play a more significant role. Customized outreach through these trusted messengers can help reduce hesitancy. 

• Media Platforms: Communication preferences differ across communities. While platforms like Facebook typically have broad reach, traditional media such as TV news can be more effective in reaching certain populations. Understanding these preferences ensures that messages are communicated in the most impactful way. 

By providing this level of detail, the pilot project aims to equip public health stakeholders with actionable insights to develop campaigns that resonate with specific audiences, leading to more impactful and equitable immunization initiatives. 

The dashboard represents a step forward in equipping key stakeholders with the resources they need to protect communities from vaccine-preventable diseases and ultimately, to save lives. 

Dashboard Feedback and Access

Interested health professionals can learn more and request access at: www.nfid.org/us-vaccine-uptake-dashboard/.

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter), like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram and Bluesky, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

Almost all cervical cancers in the US are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). Because most people with HPV infections have no symptoms, many are unaware they are infected. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that more than 42 million people in the US are infected with HPV, including about 13 million new infections each year.

Although most infections resolve on their own, it can take up to 2 years for the infection to go away. Some of the HPV infections that do not go away can progress to cervical cancer. This was all too real for cervical cancer survivor, Lindsay, who first experienced symptoms in June 2022 but did not receive a diagnosis for 5 long months. As she describes, “By then, my condition had worsened to the point where I required a 10-day hospital stay, emergency radiation, numerous blood transfusions, and multiple rounds of chemotherapy.”

Fortunately, HPV vaccination can help prevent cervical cancer and other types of cancer caused by HPV. CDC recommends HPV vaccination for:

• All preteens at age 11 or 12 years (vaccination can start at age 9 years)
• Males and females through age 26 years, if not previously vaccinated

Adults age 27-45 years should talk with a healthcare professional about whether HPV vaccination is right for them and if they are likely to benefit from vaccination.

Those with a prior HPV infection should still get vaccinated because the vaccine can help protect against other HPV types; however, for maximum benefit, vaccination is recommended before an individual becomes sexually active and is exposed to the virus.

Lindsay’s story doesn’t end with her diagnosis. She is now a cervical cancer survivor and a passionate advocate for others. To help raise awareness, Lindsay founded Get In Good With Your Health, an organization dedicated to educating communities about cervical cancer, HPV vaccination, and available resources. She also serves as an ambassador for Cervivor, a cervical cancer awareness and support group. Her commitment to raising awareness highlights the power of sharing personal experiences to educate and empower others.

I know HPV vaccination can seem optional or unnecessary, but it’s a form of prevention that could save your child’s life. If you have doubts, ask a trusted healthcare professional to explain it thoroughly. Don’t be afraid to seek clarity—it’s your right to be informed.

—Lindsay, Cervical Cancer Survivor

 

Read more about Lindsay’s experience with cervical cancer

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter), like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram and Bluesky, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

Special thanks to Robert H. Hopkins, Jr. MD, medical director of the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) for sharing insights on the importance of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) prevention.

We are now well into the second RSV season since the approval and introduction of new tools to help reduce the risk of severe RSV disease in infants and older adults. Sadly, these tools are underutilized, leaving many patients vulnerable.

RSV is highly contagious and can infect people of all ages, but it is most likely to cause severe disease in young children and older adults. Most commonly, it causes an upper respiratory illness, but it can cause severe pneumonia, which can land you in the hospital—or worse. Each year in the US, RSV leads to:

• approximately 2.1 million outpatient visits and up to 80,000 hospitalizations among children younger than age 5 years
• up to 150,000 hospitalizations among adults age 60 years and older

Immunity following infection is not long-lasting, which is why the new tools are the best line of defense in protecting our youngest and oldest patients against severe RSV disease. To help protect older adults, there are now 3 approved RSV vaccines to choose from, and 1 dose of RSV vaccine is recommended for all adults age 75 years and older and those age 60-74 years who are at increased risk for severe RSV. To help protect young children, 1 RSV vaccine is recommended for pregnant women late in pregnancy to provide passive immunity to their infants, and a long-acting monoclonal antibody is recommended for any infant born to a mother who did not receive RSV vaccination while pregnant.

I have had a number of conversations with my patients and their families about RSV prevention, and 4 key themes have emerged:

1. Many families with older children have heard about RSV and know of at least 1 person impacted by RSV. This group as a whole are most interested in knowing about—and preventing—severe RSV disease.
2. Most first-time mothers have heard about RSV. A significant proportion were vaccinated during pregnancy, but only about half of those who were not vaccinated are willing to have their infant immunized with nirsevimab (the long-acting monoclonal antibody recommended for infants).
3. Many older adults have heard about RSV vaccine, but far fewer know about RSV disease, how serious it can be, or whether they should get vaccinated.
4. Pediatricians are very comfortable with their knowledge about RSV, but internists, family physicians, and nurses are less likely to know about RSV and available tools to help prevent it.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only about 35% of eligible older adults and 35% of pregnant women have been vaccinated against RSV as of January 4, 2025, and approximately 40% of infants received nirsevimab in 2023-2024. In other words, about 3 out of 5 older adults remain vulnerable to RSV, and far too many infants remain unprotected.

If those numbers don’t concern you, think about the real-life impact that RSV can have on people’s lives—people like Emily, whose daughter Presley caught RSV and passed away in November 2021 (before there was an approved vaccine), or Susan, an active grandmother who battled RSV for several months and now works to raise awareness about the potentially serious health complications of RSV in older adults.

In the US, RSV generally circulates in fall and winter. I expect that we will continue to see a rise in RSV cases, hospitalizations, and complications as we move further into the winter of 2025. My hope is to see increasing demand for these safe and effective RSV prevention tools, with an increase in RSV vaccination of pregnant women and older adults and routine administration of monoclonal antibody to all at risk infants.

I recommend that all families, especially those who have older relatives or are expecting the birth of a newborn, talk with a trusted healthcare professional about how best to protect against severe RSV disease. Getting vaccinated for those at highest risk, staying away from others who are sick, washing your hands, and wearing a mask are all steps you can take to help keep your family healthy!

About 3 out of 5 older adults remain vulnerable to RSV, and far too many infants remain unprotected. Simply put, increased use of available RSV prevention tools will help us minimize the impact of RSV illness on our communities.

RSV Immunization Graphics

Share these graphics to help raise awareness about RSV prevention and tag NFID channels using the hashtag #PreventRSV:

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To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter), like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram and Bluesky, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

2024 was a year of remarkable achievements, collaborations, and significant milestones, including:

• 7B+ media impressions (from the NFID Annual News Conference)
• 74K+ social media followers
• 1.3M web page views
• 300+ partner organizations

NFID launched a Spanish-language version of the website, extending critical resources to a broader audience. Through collaborations with existing and new partners, NFID tackled critical public health challenges throughout the year, including raising awareness about the importance of protecting at-risk populations from vaccine-preventable diseases, building vaccine confidence and increasing uptake, and empowering individuals with important health information to help them live healthier lives.

Partnerships with professional societies, medical and patient advocacy groups, government agencies, industry, academia, and others interested in the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases are critical to our long-standing success. Collaboration is a core value of NFID and is embedded in all of our work, as collective efforts amplify our impact and help drive meaningful change.

If people don’t trust the messenger, they won’t trust the message no matter how well we craft it. At NFID, our focus is on empowering messengers with timely messages that resonate.
NFID President Jeffery A. Goad, PharmD, MPH

Your Support Makes a Difference

Read and share the report, get inspired, and renew your commitment to support the mission of NFID. Together, we can create healthier lives for all. From all of us at NFID, thank you for your continued support!

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter), like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram and Bluesky, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

Their efforts focused on several neglected tropical diseases, including river blindness and Guinea worm disease. Public health leaders and advocates have praised the former president for helping to introduce the term “neglected tropical diseases” to the public and raising awareness about forgotten diseases and their impact on human lives. President Carter was deeply involved in the work of The Carter Center, including personally negotiating a ceasefire during the Sudanese Civil War in 1995 so that healthcare workers could advance efforts to eradicate Guinea worm. In the mid-1980s, about 3.5 million cases of the disease were reported each year in Africa and Asia, and by 2023, only 14 cases were reported in Africa.

In 1997, NFID presented the Carters with the first annual Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Humanitarian Award in recognition of their extraordinary humanitarian service. Since that time, NFID has honored more than 25 individuals whose outstanding humanitarian efforts and achievements have contributed significantly to improving global public health through domestic and/or international activities. From developing new vaccines and treatments, to tracking and mitigating infectious diseases, and advocating for health equity, NFID awardees are recognized for their commitment to serving communities across the US and around the globe. Recipients of the award include:

• Seth F. Berkley, MD, co-creator of COVAX, which helped deliver nearly 2 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccine to 146 countries
• Helene D. Gayle, MD, MPH, an internationally recognized expert on HIV/AIDS and global health, who oversaw robust programs to fight poverty and improve the lives of women and girls in more than 60 countries, as president and CEO of CARE
• Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, PhD, current director-general of the World Health Organization, who led ambitious efforts as minister of health of Ethiopia to address malaria and HIV/AIDS, expand access to antiretroviral therapy, and improve the health of millions globally
• Former President Bill Clinton, who increased US funding for HIV/AIDS research and fostered faster drug approval as President, and later established the Clinton Foundation HIV/AIDS Initiative to expand access to care and treatment in the developing world
• General Colin L. Powell, a passionate advocate for children’s health who led America’s Promise—the Alliance for Youth, devoted to improving the lives of the nation’s youth by providing resources to millions of young people

President Carter continued to send annual letters of congratulations to NFID award recipients until the 50th anniversary of NFID:

As NFID celebrates its 50^th anniversary, Rosalynn and I applaud the organization for the vital role it has played in educating the public and healthcare professionals about the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases across the human lifespan. Through its activities, NFID educates and engages millions—from families with small children to experienced healthcare professionals and community leaders. Rosalynn joins me in sending our congratulations to the 2022 NFID distinguished awardees.

Jimmy Carter, December 2022

Nominations Now Open for 2025 Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Humanitarian Award

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter) using the hashtag #NFIDAwards, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram and Bluesky, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

• NFID Collaborations
• Exclusive Partner Updates
• Valuable NFID Resources (webinars, podcasts, blogs)
• Reader Poll
• And More …

Message From Headquarters

NFID recommends that individuals take the following steps:

• Avoid contact with sick or dead birds or other animals
• Do not drink raw (unpasteurized) milk
• Eat meat or poultry only if it has been properly handled and cooked
• If you are in contact with potentially sick birds or other animals, use personal protective equipment including masks and gloves, and wash your hands with soap and water afterward
• If you had contact with potentially sick poultry or other animals, watch for symptoms and contact a trusted healthcare professional as soon as possible for guidance regarding testing and/or treatment

Getting an annual flu vaccine will not prevent infection with bird flu viruses, but it can reduce the risk of coinfection with seasonal flu and bird flu and lower the risk of flu-related complications including hospitalization or death.

“Existing tools, such as antivirals and personal protective equipment, are sufficient to manage bird flu right now, but we need to maintain testing and surveillance efforts as part of a robust public health infrastructure,” Hopkins says.

Recent cases reported in the US involve exposure to sick birds or dairy cows. Public health surveillance helps identify signs of human-to-human spread or indications that the virus is causing disease in people.

“Flu viruses are notoriously unpredictable. We do not know whether H5N1—or another pathogen—will spark a pandemic, but we do know that we must be prepared. A strong public health infrastructure helps protect us all,” advises Hopkins.

About NFID

Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. NFID has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum transparency seal from Candid/GuideStar. For more information, visit www.nfid.org/flu.

Bird Flu

California Child Who Experienced Fever and Vomiting from Raw Milk Does Not Have Bird Flu, CDC Testing Shows: More than 50 human cases of a bird flu variant have been confirmed across 7 states this year, 32 of which were reported in California. While no cases of bird flu virus have currently been confirmed in people who drank raw milk, health officials have long warned against consuming unpasteurized milk because it can contain illness-causing bacteria. Pasteurized milk, which is heat-treated to kill the virus, remains safe to drink. Source: CBS News

USDA to Begin Required National Milk Testing for Bird Flu: The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the start of its National Milk Testing Strategy to test for highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza (bird flu). The federal order will initially be only implemented in California, Colorado, Michigan, Mississippi, Oregon, and Pennsylvania. Source: Healio

Bird Flu Virus is One Mutation Away from Binding More Efficiently to Human Cells: Scientists have discovered that H5N1, the strain of highly pathogenic avian influenza virus currently spreading in US dairy cows, only needs a single mutation to readily latch on to human cells found in the upper airway, raising concerns it could transmit more easily between people. The findings could have major implications for a new pandemic if such a mutation were to become widespread in nature. Source: Scientific American

COVID-19

Coronavirus FAQ: I Didn’t Get the Latest COVID Vaccine. Should I? And if So … When? A recent report from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) finds that just under 20% of eligible people have gotten the 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine, which has been updated to better match currently circulating variants of the virus. “That uptake is nowhere near where it should be,” says NFID Medical Director Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD.  According to CDC, everyone age 6 months and older is eligible for the vaccine. As for timing, with end-of-year travel and holiday parties, keep in mind that it takes about 2 weeks for the vaccine to be effective. And while COVID-19 isn’t surging at the moment, Hopkins says winter outbreaks can be expected. Source: NPR

The Biggest Challenge with COVID-19 Right Now: An Interview with NFID Medical Director Robert Hopkins, Jr, MD: The NFID medical director voiced concern over continued circulation and evolution of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the context of crippled prevention efforts among public health officials and even among frontline healthcare professionals. In some communities, Hopkins said, clinicians are not stocking the vaccine. Vaccine fatigue and the lingering effects of misinformation campaigns appear to be overpowering any vestiges of concern for the danger of the infection. Source: Patient Care

HPV

Cervical Cancer Deaths Drop among Younger Women; Study Credits HPV Vaccine: Cervical cancer deaths among women younger than age 25 have plummeted in recent years, the likely result of vaccinating adolescents against human papillomavirus (HPV), high-risk strains of which cause cancer, researchers said. “Vaccination is the only explanation for this startling and substantial decline,” the senior author of the study said. Scientists found a steep 62% drop in mortality from cervical cancer among younger women in the US during the last decade. However, in a worrisome side note, statistics from CDC show that HPV vaccination rates have been waning, dropping from 79.3% in 2022 to 75.9% in 2023, among US adolescents who are eligible for the vaccine. Source: The Washington Post

Norovirus

Norovirus Causes up to 21 Million Illnesses in the US Every Year. Here’s What to Know about the Contagious Disease: Norovirus, commonly called the stomach flu, although it’s unrelated to influenza, “spreads with remarkable ease,” says NFID spokesperson William Schaffner, MD, of Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Its nicknames include “winter vomiting disease” and “the cruise ship virus,” as it easily spreads among those in close quarters. The best advice, experts say: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, which is more effective than alcohol-based hand sanitizer at removing norovirus particles. And take other steps like cleaning and disinfecting surfaces. Source: Fortune

Share Your Infectious Disease Story

Have you or someone you care for been affected by flu, COVID-19, norovirus, or another infectious disease? Share your story with NFID to help raise awareness about vaccine-preventable diseases, drug-resistant infections, and other infectious disease topics.

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter), like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

Diseases like flu and COVID-19 have disproportionately affected Black communities and other racial and ethnic groups in the US, leading to more infections, hospitalizations, and deaths. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that from 2009 to 2023, age-adjusted flu hospitalizations were 1.8 times higher among Black adults compared to White adults.  Despite the higher disease burden among communities of color, vaccination rates for flu and COVID-19 have historically been low.

“NFID is excited about this collaboration, as we are committed to driving awareness about infectious diseases to motivate people to take actions to help protect their health,” said NFID Executive Director and CEO Marla Dalton, CAE. “It’s important that we empower trusted messengers from communities most impacted by respiratory diseases.”

“By getting vaccinated, we can help protect ourselves, our families, and our communities from becoming seriously ill due to flu, COVID-19, RSV, and pneumococcal disease,” said NCNW President and CEO Shavon Arline-Bradley. “Vaccines are the best line of defense to help protect against serious outcomes from these respiratory diseases, and every year, people in our communities become seriously ill, and many die because they are not vaccinated.”

As part of the collaboration, videos featuring Black community leaders urging their followers to get vaccinated will be shared nationally, and NCNW will air the NFID animated video Are You That Person? at events during National Influenza Vaccination Week (December 2-6, 2024). The video, available in English and Spanish, focuses on flu symptoms, prevention, and treatment, reminding viewers to get vaccinated each year and stay home when sick to help protect themselves and those around them.

Vaccination is especially important for those at higher risk, including infants and young children, pregnant women, older adults, and those with chronic health conditions. According to CDC:

• Everyone age 6 months and older should get an annual flu vaccine and an updated COVID-19 vaccine

• Those at risk should talk with a healthcare professional about options to prevent serious illness from RSV and pneumococcal disease

About NFID

Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. The NFID website features timely and updated information on COVID-19, flu, pneumococcal disease, and RSV. NFID has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum transparency seal from Candid/GuideStar. For more information, visit www.nfid.org.

About NCNW

For 89 years, the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) has been committed to empower, inform, and uplift Black women, their families and communities. The Good Health Women’s Immunization Networks (Good Health WINS) is a commitment to build an army of good health champions who understand the importance of immunizations across the lifespan. Through a network of trusted messengers and grassroots activities, their goal is to increase vaccination rates and help remove barriers to access to vaccines and good health.

Contact:

Diana Olson (NFID), dolson@nfid.org

Erica Southerland, PhD, APR (NCNW), esoutherland@ncnw.org

Arlington, VA, Bethesda, MD, Chicago, IL, and Dallas, TX (December 3, 2024)—According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the 2023-2024 influenza (flu) season saw between 34-75 million flu cases, up to 900,000 hospitalizations, and as many as 100,000 deaths. December 2-6, 2024 is National Influenza Vaccination Week, and the American Heart Association, American Lung Association, American Diabetes Association^®, and National Foundation for Infectious Diseases are partnering to urge everyone age 6 months and older to get an annual flu vaccine.

In the US, flu season typically peaks between December and March. Although the best time to get vaccinated in the US is typically in the fall, before flu viruses start circulating widely, flu vaccination is still beneficial anytime during the season. It is important to get vaccinated before the holidays when people typically spend more time traveling and indoors with their families. Experts urge those who have not yet gotten a flu vaccine to do so as soon as possible.

The 2023-2024 flu season data revealed that 94.3% of adults and 71% of children and adolescents hospitalized with flu had at least 1 underlying medical condition. This underscores the need for those who are at a higher risk for severe complications to get vaccinated against flu each year, including:

• Adults age 65 years and older
• Pregnant women
• Individuals with chronic health conditions, including asthma, COPD, heart disease, diabetes, and kidney disease

“The threat of influenza and COVID-19 is particularly significant for individuals with diabetes and/or obesity, especially since many people living with diabetes also experience additional complications such as heart disease and kidney disease. It is recommended that all eligible individuals, particularly those with diabetes, obesity, and other chronic illnesses, stay current with their annual vaccines, including flu vaccine,” said Raveendhara Bannuru, MD, PhD, American Diabetes Association (ADA) vice president of medical affairs. “Get vaccinated to protect loved ones who are at higher risk for complications, even if you do not have diabetes or obesity.”

“Getting your flu vaccine is one of the most effective and proven ways to protect yourself and those around you from severe illness, hospitalizations, and even death caused by influenza. Flu vaccines have been shown to reduce flu-related doctor visits and hospitalizations by 40–60% across all age groups. For older adults, children, and those with chronic health conditions, flu vaccination is especially critical, as these groups face higher risks of complications. With flu vaccination rates lagging pre-pandemic levels, it’s more important than ever to prioritize this simple yet impactful preventive measure,” said Eduardo Sanchez, MD, MPH, the American Heart Association’s chief medical officer for prevention.

“Last flu season, 35% of adults hospitalized due to flu had a chronic lung disease. Since flu itself is a respiratory virus, it is imperative that people with a lung disease get vaccinated,” said Albert Rizzo, MD, chief medical officer for the American Lung Association. “Annual flu vaccination is essential to help protect against severe flu-related illness and reduce the burden on our healthcare system. By getting vaccinated, you are not only protecting yourself but also helping to prevent the spread of flu in your community.”

According to a recent National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) survey, only 38% of US adults say they will definitely get a flu vaccine during the 2024-2025 season, despite 2 out of 3 (67%) agreeing that annual flu vaccination is the most effective way to prevent flu-related hospitalizations and deaths. Among US adults age 18-64 years with at least 1 chronic health condition, only 46% received a flu vaccine last season, 3 percentage points lower than in 2022-2023 (49%), and 4 percentage points lower than in 2021-2022 (50%). “This downward trend is troubling because people who have chronic health conditions are more likely to develop serious and even life-threatening complications from flu,” said NFID Medical Director Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD. “Flu vaccines save lives, and getting vaccinated each year is the best line of defense to help protect yourself, your family, and your community from serious disease and potential complications.” CDC estimates that during the 2023-2024 respiratory season, flu vaccination prevented 9.8 million flu-related illnesses, 120,000 flu-related hospitalizations, and 7,900 flu-related deaths.

The American Heart Association, American Lung Association, American Diabetes Association, and National Foundation for Infectious Diseases all offer educational resources on their websites about the burden of flu and the importance of vaccination for people with chronic health conditions. 

About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases

Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. NFID promotes a Take 3 approach to help prevent respiratory illnesses: 1) Get vaccinated; 2) Practice healthy habits to help stop the spread of infectious diseases (wash hands often, stay home when sick, cover coughs and sneezes, and consider wearing a mask if you or a household member are at increased risk of severe illness); 3) Treat with prescription medication if recommended by a healthcare professional. NFID has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum transparency seal from Candid. For more information, visit www.nfid.org and https://es.nfid.org/ (in Spanish).

About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

About the American Lung Association

The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy and research. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to champion clean air for all; to improve the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families; and to create a tobacco-free future. For more information about the American Lung Association, which has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and is a Platinum-Level GuideStar Member, or to support the work it does, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org.

About the American Diabetes Association

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) is the nation’s leading voluntary health organization fighting to bend the curve on the diabetes epidemic and help people living with diabetes thrive. For 83 years, the ADA has driven discovery and research to treat, manage, and prevent diabetes while working relentlessly for a cure. Through advocacy, program development, and education we aim to improve the quality of life for the over 133 million Americans living with diabetes or prediabetes. Diabetes has brought us together. What we do next will make us Connected for Life®. To learn more or to get involved, visit us at diabetes.org or call 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383). Join the fight with us on Facebook (American Diabetes Association), Spanish Facebook (Asociación Americana de la Diabetes), LinkedIn (American Diabetes Association), Twitter (@AmDiabetesAssn), and Instagram (@AmDiabetesAssn).

Contact: Diana Olson (NFID), dolson@nfid.org

The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) has compiled partner resources that can be used during NIVW and throughout the season to help raise awareness about the importance of flu prevention and treatment:

NFID Resources

Are you that person? The one who goes out in public with flu? These animated videos (in English and Spanish) focus on flu symptoms and the importance of prevention and timely treatment, reminding viewers to get an annual flu vaccine and stay home when sick to help protect themselves and those around them.

​

#GiftOfHealth Holiday Memes Share these NFID holiday memes (in English and Spanish) and sample social media posts to encourage followers to share holiday cheer, not flu, during the holidays.
Flu and Chronic Health Conditions Flu is not a game, especially for those with chronic health conditions—including heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, and kidney disease—which put them at higher risk of serious flu-related complications. Share these NFID videos to help spread awareness, not disease!

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Resources

NIVW is a great time to remind everyone that flu vaccination is the best defense against the worst symptoms of flu. CDC offers graphics, videos, factsheets, and other resources (in English and Spanish) to encourage everyone age 6 months and older to get an annual flu vaccine, especially pregnant people, young children, and others at higher risk. The more people vaccinated against flu, the more people are protected from flu.

Association of Immunization Managers (AIM) Resources

AIM offers a social media toolkit with graphics and sample posts in English and Spanish to remind everyone age 6 months and older that there’s still time to get a flu vaccine. The toolkit includes graphics and posts about flu vaccine options and reminders that flu vaccines can be given at the same time as other vaccines, including those that help protect against COVID-19.

Families Fighting Flu Resources

During NIVW, Families Fighting Flu is planning a Mythbusting and Media Literacy Social Media Takeover with Voices for Vaccines, a patient/provider Instagram Live with the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners, and a series of webinars with partner organizations.

Leading By Example

Now more than ever, it is vital that the public health community speaks with ‘one strong voice’ on the importance of infectious disease prevention. Organizations can join the NFID Leading By Example initiative, and individuals can download #FightFlu paddles and share photos/videos on social media to encourage everyone age 6 months or older to get an annual flu vaccine.

Share Additional Resources: Know of other valuable tools and resources focused on raising awareness about the importance of annual flu vaccination? Share updates so we can help spread the word …

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter) using the hashtags #NIVW, #GetVaccinated, and #FightFlu, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

Special thanks to Karen Ernst, MA, of Voices for Vaccines for sharing her expertise in this guest blog post on communicating the science of vaccines … even with your relatives.

For many families, a large gathering around a table filled with turkey, potatoes, and a can-shaped slab of cranberries is the pinnacle of autumn joy. Aunt Susan asks you to pass the gravy, Cousin Greg compliments the turkey, and Uncle Harold tells you he doesn’t know why you went out to get a flu vaccine because those things are hoaxes.

Now what? You may be tempted to let his comment go and change the subject. If you are certain that everyone around the table knows not to listen to Uncle Harold, that is a reasonable course of action. But in larger gatherings, people rarely agree so universally with one another.

Dealing with Misinformation

The trouble with letting Harold be Harold is that even off-handed remarks can create doubt that is difficult to undo when those doubts are given time to fester. The time to deal with vaccine (or other) misinformation is immediately. And the way to deal with it is through building connections and expressing empathy.

That’s not the way it usually goes. We usually deal with the Harolds of our lives by using sarcasm or being dismissive. I mean, sure Harold, flu shots aren’t real, we never landed on the moon, and Paul McCartney died and was replaced by a fake Paul. Sure. But the others in the room, who may be at least curious about the vaccine hoax claim, hear only condescension. No one is swayed or convinced by sarcasm.

In a clinical setting, when healthcare professionals are faced with a vaccine-hesitant patient, they can employ motivational interviewing techniques. Motivational interviewing is a team effort to help the patient make positive changes in their life. It is a type of conversation where both the patient and the healthcare professional work together to boost patient motivation and commitment to reconsider immunization. According to Professor Julie Leask from University of Sydney, the conversation begins with eliciting concerns, moves to summarizing those concerns and setting an agenda for the conversation, and then goes on to evoking and reinforcing change. Before giving recommendations, the healthcare professional gets permission from the patient, offers information, and asks about their response to the information and recommendation.

4 Ways to Build Trust

But the family dinner table is a different place from the clinic, and we are guided primarily by our desire to prevent the holiday from devolving into a shouting match and to maintain our relationships with our family. Voices for Vaccines has built a method as a way for non-healthcare professionals to use the basics of motivational interviewing to have constructive conversations about vaccines (and other potentially controversial topics) that are honest and won’t ruin dinner.

The 4 A method is summarized as:

• Ask: Elicit more information about the main concern
• Acknowledge: Build connections to the person by acknowledging what you have in common, what you agree about, or where they are correct
• Affirm: Asking questions and seeking information is reasonable, and many people have these same doubts
• Answer: Get permission to provide your perspective about the concern or facts

Instead of brushing Harold’s concerns off with a derisive snort or with sarcasm, we can enter into a conversation with him by using our own curiosity and asking him to tell us more. Why does he think flu vaccines are a hoax? What are his experiences that lead him to believe that? Rather than swooping in to provide the answers reflexively, we build trust with Harold by listening to learn more about his thought process, rather than listening to respond to what he is getting wrong.

In fact, we work hard to respond to what he gets right. Acknowledging our points of agreement or even our commonalities goes a long way in building trust. It is also a platform on which we can build a change in behaviors or beliefs. Can we get Harold to agree that perhaps vaccines do some specific good?

We can also affirm that his beliefs are not uncommon. Maybe we have heard these concerns before from others, or maybe hearing them now, we understand that it would be difficult to agree to vaccinate under these circumstances. Our empathy not only helps build trust with Harold, but also shows us to be the kind of person anyone at the table can come to with questions and concerns. Isn’t it better that they come to us than Uncle Harold or the guy from their high school gym class?

Now we tell Uncle Harold all about how flu vaccines are not a hoax, right? Wrong. Answering is a process that begins with getting permission from Harold by saying something like, “Would you be interested in my thoughts about why flu vaccines are important?” Most people will say yes, and then we can offer facts, thoughts, experiences, stories, and whatever we have that makes our case. Offering rather than forcing better information about vaccines respects the other person’s free will and right to think as they wish. And it also puts good information out to the rest of the table.

When we sit at holiday tables with the Harolds in our lives, we may feel a need to make sure the facts are corrected. The 4 A process puts the facts last for a simple reason: You cannot get a loved one to listen to you when you put facts ahead of your relationship with them.

“Fostering a respectful relationship is the most important tool we have to change beliefs and intentions.”

Share the #GiftOfHealth

Share these infectious disease memes to help spread awareness, not disease this holiday season. Tag your friends and family to remind them to #GetVaccinated to help stay healthy!

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID and Voices for Vaccines on X (Twitter), like NFID on Facebook, follow NFID on Instagram, visit NFID on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

1. Antibiotic Resistance Is A Leading Public Health Threat

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), antibiotic resistance is a leading global public health threat, directly responsible for an estimated 1.3 million deaths globally in 2019 alone. In the US, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that more than 2.8 million antimicrobial-resistant infections occur each year, and more than 35,000 people die as a result. When Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) is included, the number jumps to 48,000 US deaths per year.

2. Healthy Habits Help Protect against Antibiotic Resistance

Although no one can completely avoid getting an infection, healthy habits can help protect you from getting infected and from spreading germs. Wash your hands, cover your coughs and sneezes, get plenty of sleep, and make sure everyone in your family is up to date on all recommended vaccines, including an annual influenza (flu) vaccine and an updated COVID-19 vaccine.

If you do get sick, stay home to avoid spreading germs to others. If your symptoms include a stuffy or runny nose, sore throat, cough, headache, and muscle aches, the illness may be caused by a virus—which means an antibiotic will not help. Learn how to recognize a respiratory virus infection and what to do if you have one.

3. Antibiotics Should Only Be Used To Treat Bacterial Infections, Not Viruses

Antibiotics are not always the answer when you are sick. Antibiotics are effective against some bacterial infections, such as strep throat, whooping cough, and urinary tract infections (UTIs). However, antibiotics are not effective against viruses, such as those that cause colds, flu, bronchitis, or runny noses.

Antimicrobial resistance happens when germs, like bacteria and fungi, develop the ability to defeat the drugs designed to kill them. Once resistance develops to one antibiotic, different antibiotics, which can be less effective or have more side effects, are needed for treatment. Sometimes bacteria can become resistant to all available antibiotics, leaving patients with infections caused by these bacteria with no options for therapy.

4. Antibiotic Resistance Can Affect People of All Ages

Infections caused by resistant germs impact people of all ages and backgrounds. In many cases, these infections require extended hospital stays, additional follow-up doctor visits, and treatments that may be costly and have significant side effects. Resistant bacteria can be spread to other people either in the healthcare setting or at home.

5. Any Time Antibiotics Are Used, They Can Lead to Resistance

Antibiotics can save lives and are critical tools for treating common and serious bacterial infections. But it is important to use antibiotics only when needed and only as prescribed. Any time antibiotics are used, they can  contribute to the development of antimicrobial resistance. The human body is full of bacteria, so when you take an antibiotic there is a good chance that the “good” bacteria in your gut will become more resistant to that antibiotic. Some people will not have consequences from this, but others will develop subsequent resistant infections or pass resistant bugs on to family members. Antibiotics can also have side effects. Some, like mild rashes, stomach upset, diarrhea, and yeast infections, are simply inconvenient and annoying. Others, such as C. diff infection and severe skin rashes, can be serious and may need medical attention.

Improving how antibiotics are prescribed and used can help keep patients healthy, protect against serious health outcomes, and ensure these life-saving drugs are available for future generations.

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter) using the hashtags #USAAW24 and #BeAntibioticsAware, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and sign up to receive NFID Updates via email.

Pneumococcal pneumonia is a leading bacterial cause of hospitalized pneumonia in the US. Older adults and people with lung disease and other chronic medical conditions or risk factors are at increased risk of serious disease or death from pneumococcal pneumonia. In October 2024, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lowered the initial age at which US adults are recommended to get vaccinated against pneumococcal disease from 65 to 50 years.

“The new recommendation gives more US adults the opportunity to help protect themselves from pneumococcal disease, which can lead to serious illnesses, including pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections,” said NFID Medical Director Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD. “Vaccination is our best defense against these serious diseases. We want everyone who is eligible to take advantage of this opportunity to help lower their risk.”

“Pneumococcal pneumonia is a potentially serious bacterial lung disease that can disrupt a person’s life for weeks, and when severe, it can result in hospitalization and can even be life threatening. Now is a great time to talk with a healthcare professional about pneumococcal vaccination because it is respiratory virus season and having influenza (flu) or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can increase a person’s chances of getting pneumococcal disease. Being protected with vaccination lowers the risk of disease,” said Albert Rizzo, MD, chief medical officer for the American Lung Association. “We are honored to partner with NFID to urge anyone who is eligible to get vaccinated.”

Despite the potential severity of pneumococcal disease, a recent NFID national survey of US adults found that among those at higher risk for pneumococcal disease, less than half (44%) plan to get vaccinated. Among those who do not plan to get vaccinated, the top reason cited was concern about vaccine side effects.

“We want patients to understand that potential side effects associated with pneumococcal vaccines are rare and are much less severe than the diseases they prevent,” said NFID President-Elect Monica M. Farley, MD. “If you are age 50 years or older or have other risk factors, please get vaccinated! And, if you do have concerns about vaccines, please talk with a trusted healthcare professional.”

Pneumococcal vaccines can be given at the same time as other recommended vaccines, including:

• annual flu vaccines and updated COVID-19 vaccines (recommended for everyone age 6 months and older) and
• RSV vaccines (recommended for pregnant women, adults age 75 years and older, and adults age 60-74 years who have certain risk factors like asthma and COPD)

For details on who should receive pneumococcal vaccines and when, view the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations.

About Pneumococcal Disease

Pneumococcal disease is caused by bacteria (Streptococcus pneumoniae) that can attack different parts of the body. When these bacteria invade the lungs, they can cause pneumonia; when they invade the bloodstream, they can cause sepsis; and when they invade the lining of the brain, they can cause meningitis. These serious conditions often require hospitalization and can lead to death.

About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases

Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. NFID has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum transparency seal from Candid/GuideStar. For more information, visit www.nfid.org/pneumococcal.

About the American Lung Association

 The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy and research. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on 4 strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to champion clean air for all; to improve the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families; and to create a tobacco-free future. For more information about the American Lung Association, which has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and is a Platinum-Level GuideStar Member, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org.  To support the work of the American Lung Association, find a local event at Lung.org/events.

Contact: Diana Olson (NFID), dolson@nfid.org

It can be hard to tell the difference because the symptoms of these respiratory infections are often similar. Common symptoms of all 4 infections may include cough, headaches, sneezing, and congestion. To help you tell the difference, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) developed a simple chart, available in English and Spanish.

Why Testing Matters

If you have symptoms of flu or COVID-19, it is important to get tested as soon as possible. There are specific treatments available that may help you recover faster and avoid serious complications—especially if you are among those at higher risk including pregnant women, young children, older adults, or people with chronic health conditions including asthma, heart disease, or diabetes.

Treatment Options

Flu: If prescribed, taking flu antiviral drugs can make symptoms milder, shorten the duration of illness by 1-2 days, and help prevent serious complications, like pneumonia. Ideally, flu antiviral drugs should be taken within 2 days of the onset of symptoms. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends prompt treatment for anyone at higher risk who has flu or suspected flu, so contact a trusted healthcare professional as soon symptoms first appear.

COVID-19: If you test positive for COVID-19, talk with a healthcare professional as soon as possible to see if treatment is right for you. COVID-19 antiviral drugs are most effective when taken within 5-7 days after symptoms begin. The  Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized or approved treatments for certain patients who are more likely to get very sick from COVID-19.

RSV: There are currently no specific antiviral medications or treatments available for RSV. Symptoms of mild cases of RSV can be managed with over-the-counter fever reducers and pain relievers (never give aspirin to children). More serious cases may require oxygen and respiratory care treatments, and in some cases, hospitalization.

Prevention

Of course, the best defense is a good offense. Use the NFID checklist to help ensure that you and your family stay up to date on recommended respiratory vaccines:  

• Flu (Everyone age 6 months and older) 

Everyone age 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine every year. If you are age 65 years or older or have a weakened immune system, talk with a healthcare professional about specific flu vaccines that offer extra protection. 

• COVID-19 (Everyone age 6 months and older) 

People at high risk and everyone age 6 months and older who wants to be vaccinated should get an updated COVID-19 vaccine to help protect against new variants that are circulating. CDC recommends a second dose (6 months later) for adults age 65 years and older and people who are moderately or severely immunocompromised.

• RSV (Older adults, pregnant women/infants) 

RSV vaccination is recommended for all adults age 75 years and older, adults age 50-74 years who have certain risk factors, and pregnant women to help protect their infants. For infants born to mothers who did not get an RSV vaccine while pregnant, a monoclonal antibody is recommended. 

• Pneumococcal disease (Young children, older adults, those with certain medical conditions) 

Pneumococcal vaccines (sometimes called pneumonia vaccines) are recommended for all children younger than age 5 years, all adults age 50 years and older, and people with certain chronic health conditions, including heart disease, lung disease (asthma or COPD), kidney or liver disease, diabetes, sickle cell disease, or other conditions and treatments that weaken the immune system. 

Vaccination can help prevent respiratory infections and reduce the likelihood of serious illness, hospitalization, and even death due to preventable diseases. If you do get sick, talk with a trusted healthcare professional about treatment options.

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter) using the hashtags #GetVaccinated, #FightFlu, and #StopTheSpread, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and sign up to receive NFID Updates via email.

• 2024 Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Humanitarian Award to Seth F. Berkley, MD, of the Pandemic Center of Brown University
• 2024 Maxwell Finland Award for Scientific Achievement to Ighovwerha (Igho) Ofotokun, MD, MSc, of Emory University School of Medicine
• 2024 John P. Utz Leadership Award to Grace M. Lee, MD, MPH, of Stanford Medicine Children’s Health and Stanford University School of Medicine

In recognition of his work as a global health pioneer and a champion of equitable access to vaccines, NFID honored Seth F. Berkley, MD, a physician and infectious disease epidemiologist who led Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance for 12 years, raising $33.3 billion and increasing coverage of routine immunization in lower-income countries. Under his leadership, Gavi vaccinated more than 1 billion children, reducing vaccine-preventable child deaths by 70%, and preventing more than 19.9 million deaths. While at Gavi, Berkley co-created COVAX, which helped deliver nearly 2 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccine to 146 countries. He previously founded the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI) to develop an AIDS vaccine for developing countries.

Turning vaccines into vaccinations among the most vulnerable, Seth Berkley also played a pivotal role in changing the way the world prevents and responds to global health crises.

-Bruce G. Gellin, MD, MPH (Nominator)

Ighovwerha (Igho) Ofotokun, MD, MSc, was honored for an exceptionally productive career devoted to addressing systemic inequities in research, promoting women’s health, nurturing a global research program targeting the prevention and treatment of disease, and mentoring the next generation of HIV clinical and translational researchers. An internationally renowned clinician-scientist, his research findings have influenced HIV standard-of-care treatment guidelines in the US and internationally, including World Health Organization policy changes that now prioritize antiretroviral regimens that are less risky for women. He has also expanded the visibility and representation of women and minorities in biomedical research and leveraged his expertise and influence to promote research education and training in the US and abroad.

Igho Ofotokun has an outstanding record of scholarship, service, and teaching. He is a distinctive and recognized voice in HIV research internationally and represents an increasingly diverse, equitable, and inclusive infectious diseases workforce.

-Kathryn M. Edwards, MD (Nominator)

Grace M. Lee, MD, MPH, was recognized for her outstanding leadership as chair of the US Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention during the turbulent times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Lee oversees the Center for Pediatric and Maternal Value at Stanford Children’s, which seeks to improve quality, safety, patient experience, and health equity across the organization. Her leadership has included service on Institute of Medicine committees that reviewed priorities in the National Vaccine Plan and evaluated ethical and scientific issues in studying the safety of approved drugs. She is a member of the National Academy of Medicine and continues to manage and treat young patients with infectious diseases.

Grace Lee has graced center-stage on difficult vaccine decisions and led conversations with an inclusive, patient, yet decisive, professional tone. She was the perfect person for the times, with her easy smile and laugh, genuine caring, intelligence, and down-to-earth nature, and we are all indebted to her.

Patricia (Patsy) A. Stinchfield, RN, MS, CPNP (Nominator)

Celebrate Public Health Heroes and Support NFID

Honor the awardees and help support the mission of NFID via an online donation. All donations directly contribute to the NFID mission to educate and engage the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. Every gift makes a difference!

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter) using the hashtag #NFIDAwards, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive NFID Updates via email.

• 2024 NFID Annual News Conference: Preventing Respiratory Disease This Fall and Winter
• Call to Action: Strategies to Improve Adult Immunization in the US
• Online Clinical Vaccinology Course
• 2024 Awards Gala and Silent Auction
• NFID resources (webinars, podcasts, blogs)
• Partner spotlight
• More …

Message From Headquarters

At the 2024 NFID Annual News Conference, experts from NFID and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasized the importance of vaccination, and strongly recommended that everyone age 6 months and older, including pregnant women, receive an annual flu vaccine and an updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine. These vaccines are essential in reducing the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Panelists also urged those at higher risk, including older adults and people with chronic health conditions, to talk with a healthcare professional about vaccines to help protect against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and pneumococcal disease. CDC experts highlighted disease burden data and prior vaccination coverage rates for COVID-19, flu, and RSV.

Vaccines save lives, and we all play an important role in helping protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our communities from preventable infectious diseases.

–NFID Medical Director Robert H. Hopkins Jr., MD

Following the news conference, panelists and NFID partners got vaccinated against flu as part of the NFID Leading By Example initiative to raise awareness about the importance of disease prevention through vaccination.

The news conference was streamed live by AP News. Other top-tier media coverage included:

• Health Officials Express Concern about Low Vaccination Rates as Respiratory Virus Season Begins (AAP News)
• US Adults Aren’t Worried about Respiratory Diseases like Flu and COVID-19, According to New Research (CBS News)
• Most US Adults Won’t Get Vaccinated as Flu, COVID-19 Season Looms: Survey (HealthDay)
• Addressing Vaccine Misconceptions Essential to Increasing Vaccination Rates During Respiratory Virus Season  (McKnight’s Senior Living)
• Fewer People Plan to Get Vaccinated. Misinformation is to Blame (NJ.com)
• CDC Urges COVID-19, Flu Vaccines, But Public Interest is Flagging (The Washington Post)
• COVID-19 Cases are on a Downward Trend. How Long Will This Last? (USA Today)

View News Conferences Resources

NFID has compiled a collection of partner resources to help build awareness about flu, COVID-19, pneumococcal disease, and RSV:

American Lung Association: Get the Facts about Pneumococcal Pneumonia

The Get the Facts about Pneumococcal Pneumonia campaign aims to raise awareness about a potentially serious bacterial lung disease that can disrupt a person’s life for weeks and even lead to hospitalization. The campaign provides information about causes and transmission, symptoms, and prevention. Resources include fast facts, videos, and an online risk-assessment tool.

CDC: Wild to Mild

Even when flu vaccination does not prevent infection entirely, it can help keep symptoms mild and prevent serious complications. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Wild to Mild campaign features graphics to encourage social media followers to get themselves and their families an annual flu vaccine.

CDC: Vaccines for Pregnancy

The CDC From Me, To You communications effort invites pregnant women, their loved ones, and healthcare professionals into a conversation about how getting recommended vaccinations during pregnancy helps share protection with their babies. The page provides resources about vaccines recommended before, during, and after pregnancy.  The page also addresses how to locate and keep track of vaccination records and provides information on vaccine safety for moms to be.

Good Health WINs: Respiratory Resource Guide

The Good Health WINs Respiratory Resource Guide flip book provides a comprehensive overview of resources about vaccines for COVID-19, flu, and RSV for use by trusted messengers, including vaccine locators, patient assistance programs, and free COVID-19 testing and treatment resources.

HHS: Risk Less. Do More

The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Risk Less Do More campaign aims to increase awareness of, confidence in, and uptake of vaccines that reduce severe illness from COVID-19, flu, and RSV in at-risk populations, including older adults and persons living in long-term care facilities. Resources include ads, graphics, fact sheets, commonly asked questions and answers about vaccines, and posters outlining key reasons to get vaccinated.

Additional Resources

Know of other valuable tools and resources focused on raising awareness about the importance of respiratory disease prevention? Tag NFID to share additional tools to help spread awareness (not disease) …

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter) using the hashtags #GetVaccinated, #FightFlu, #PreventPneumo, #PreventRSV, and #StopTheSpread, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive NFID Updates via email.

CDC Director Mandy K. Cohen, MD, MPH, to present final 2023-2024 US season data showing low flu vaccination rates among US children and adults, as flu-related pediatric deaths hit record high of 199

Cohen and health experts get flu vaccinations at press conference in Washington, DC

Bethesda, MD (September 25, 2024)—Following a summer wave of COVID-19 activity and a record number of reported influenza (flu) deaths among US children during the 2023-2024 respiratory season, new survey results released today by the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) show that few US adults intend to get vaccinated against flu, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), or pneumococcal disease this fall and winter, citing concerns about vaccine side effects and a general distrust of vaccines.

Only 38% of US adults say they will definitely get a flu vaccine, despite 2 out of 3 (67%) agreeing that annual flu vaccination is the most effective way to prevent flu-related hospitalizations and deaths. Even fewer, only about 1 in 4 (26%), say they will definitely get an updated COVID-19 vaccine, and among those for whom it is recommended, only 21% definitely plan to get vaccinated against RSV and 24% against pneumococcal disease. Overall, few US adults are concerned about themselves or a family member getting infected with flu (17%), COVID-19 (20%), RSV (16%), or pneumococcal disease (17%).

At a news conference today in Washington, DC, health officials from NFID and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasized that everyone age 6 months and older, including pregnant women, should get an annual flu vaccine and an updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine to help protect against severe disease, hospitalization, and death. Officials also urged persons at higher risk, including older adults and those with certain chronic health conditions, to talk to a healthcare professional about vaccines to help protect against RSV and pneumococcal disease.

“Last flu season, an estimated 25,000 people in the US died from flu or related complications and 75,000 from COVID-19 in 2023, demonstrating how dangerous these diseases can be,” said CDC Director Mandy K. Cohen, MD, MPH. “We can protect ourselves and those we care about by getting updated vaccines to reduce the risk of serious illness from flu and COVID-19 and do more of the things we enjoy. I encourage everyone 6 months and older to get an annual flu vaccine and the updated COVID-19 vaccine in the coming weeks.”

Cohen was joined at today’s press conference by Demetre C. Daskalakis, MD, MPH, director of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases at CDC; NFID Medical Director Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD; Flor M. Muñoz, MD, MSc, associate professor of pediatrics and infectious diseases at Baylor College of Medicine and NFID director; and Reed V. Tuckson, MD, co-founder of the Black Coalition Against COVID and chair of the board of the Coalition For Trust In Health & Science. The panelists got vaccinated at an onsite flu vaccine clinic following the news conference as part of the NFID Leading By Example initiative to raise awareness about the importance of disease prevention through vaccination.

“The good news is that there are safe and effective vaccines that can help protect against certain respiratory diseases, preventing severe cases, hospitalizations, and deaths,” said Hopkins. “Vaccines are not just a shield against illness—they are an important tool in our public health efforts.”

According to new CDC data released today, the 2023-2024 flu season in the US was moderately severe with an estimated 41 million illnesses, 490,000 hospitalizations, and 25,000 flu-related deaths. Less than half (45%) of US adults received a flu vaccine during the 2023-2024 season, 2 percentage points lower than in 2022-2023 (47%), and 4 percentage points lower than in 2021-2022 (49%). In 2023-2024, slightly more than half (55%) of children age 6 months to 17 years received a flu vaccine, and 199 children died due to flu-related illness, matching the previous high reported during the 2019-2020 season. Historically, about 80% of reported pediatric deaths have been in children who were not fully vaccinated, and this is consistent last season as well. Despite the fact that 95% of US adults who were hospitalized with flu-related complications last season had at least 1 underlying chronic health condition, only 46% of those age 18-64 years with at least 1 chronic health condition received a flu vaccine last season, 3 percentage points lower than in 2022-2023 (49%), and 4 percentage points lower than in 2021-2022 (50%).

“The low vaccination rates among persons with chronic health conditions are of particular concern because they are more likely to develop serious and even life-threatening complications from respiratory infections,” said Hopkins. “We encourage everyone at increased risk to talk to a healthcare professional about which vaccines are right for them. Vaccines save lives, and we all play an important role in helping protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our communities from preventable infectious diseases.”

NFID survey data also show that among US adults who were diagnosed with flu in the last 2 years, nearly 72% say they will likely get vaccinated against flu, suggesting that firsthand experience with flu may significantly impact the decision to get vaccinated.

The NFID survey data show that vaccine confidence plays a major role in vaccination intent for flu, COVID-19, RSV, and pneumococcal disease. Many who do not plan to get vaccinated are worried about potential side effects from the vaccines or have a general distrust of vaccines, demonstrating the urgent need for greater awareness and education about vaccines.

“We must build trust by enhancing our support for people in using science and evidence to make personally appropriate decisions regarding vaccines and other health choices,” said Tuckson. “The pandemic taught us that it is possible to close some of the gaps in immunization rates among communities of color, but we still have a long way to go. In addition to evidence-based messaging, we know that guidance from familiar, trusted healthcare professionals working with minority communities is essential to building vaccine confidence.”

According to new CDC data, COVID-19 vaccination rates are significantly lower than flu vaccination rates­—only 23% of US adults age 18 years and older got an updated COVID-19 vaccine during the 2023-2024 respiratory season versus 45% who got a flu vaccine. And while individuals can safely get both flu and COVID-19 vaccines administered in the same visit, according to the NFID survey, most US adults (61%) say they would not or are unsure about getting both vaccines at the same time.

“Now is the time to act! As we approach the fall and winter virus season, it is important that we communicate to healthcare professionals and the public the risks of respiratory illnesses such as flu, COVID-19, and RSV and the life-saving benefits of immunization,” said Daskalakis. According to CDC estimates, flu vaccination prevented approximately 131,000 hospitalizations and 7,000 deaths, and COVID-19 vaccination likely prevented an additional 40,000-100,000 hospitalizations. “Flu and COVID-19 can be serious diseases with potentially life-threatening consequences and long-term risks,” he said. “Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are now available and are the best protection we have, and it’s safe to get both vaccines at the same time.”

RSV vaccination rates for US adults age 60 years and older and pregnant women (32-36 weeks) were only 24% and 33%, respectively during the 2023-2024 respiratory season. Since then, RSV vaccine recommendations have been updated, and among US adults for whom an RSV vaccine is now recommended—adults age 75 years and older, adults age 60-74 years who have certain risk factors, and pregnant women to help protect their infants—NFID survey data show that only 21% say they will definitely get vaccinated.

“RSV is a common respiratory disease that can be severe and even life-threatening for older adults and young children,” said Muñoz. “Each year in the US, we see about 2 million outpatient visits and up to 80,000 hospitalizations among children age 5 years and younger due to RSV. If you are pregnant, talk with a healthcare professional about how best to protect your baby from RSV.”

The NFID survey also asked respondents about knowledge and attitudes around pneumococcal disease. Pneumococcal disease vaccines are recommended for children age 2 years and younger, adults age 65 years and older, and individuals age 2-64 years with chronic health conditions or other risk factors. NFID survey data show that among adults for whom vaccination is recommended, 25% say they have already received a pneumococcal vaccine and 44% plan to do so.

Survey results also show that healthcare professionals remain the most trusted source of information about vaccines—75% of US adults trust doctors, nurses, and pharmacists, followed by the CDC (55%) and state and local health departments (51%).

NFID and CDC health officials emphasized that vaccines are safe and effective. Potential side effects are rare and much less severe than the diseases they prevent. Vaccination is especially critical for individuals at higher risk, including infants, older adults, and those with chronic health conditions.

For more information about the 2024 NFID survey and news conference, and to access resources for use throughout the fall and winter, visit www.nfid.org/2024flunews.

About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases

Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. For more information, visit www.nfid.org.

NFID promotes the CDC Take 3 approach to help prevent respiratory illnesses this fall and winter:

• Get vaccinated
• Practice healthy habits to help stop the spread of infectious diseases (stay home when sick, cover coughs and sneezes, wash hands often, and consider wearing a mask if you or a household member are at increased risk of severe illness)
• Treat with prescription medication if recommended by a healthcare professional

2024 National Survey: Attitudes and Behaviors about Influenza, COVID-19, Respiratory Syncytial Virus, and Pneumococcal Disease

The NFID survey was conducted by NORC at the University of Chicago. Data were collected using the AmeriSpeak Omnibus®, NORC’s probability-based panel designed to be representative of the US household population. Interviews for the survey were conducted between August 8-12, 2024, with adults age 18 years and older representing the 50 states and the District of Columbia. Randomly selected US households were sampled with a known, non-zero probability of selection from the NORC National Sample Frame and 1,160 completed the survey—1,130 online and 30 by telephone. Interviews were conducted in English.

This news conference is sponsored by NFID in collaboration with CDC, with support from professional societies and patient advocacy partners, in-kind support from Walmart and Sanofi Vaccines, and unrestricted educational grants from GSK, Merck & Co., Inc., Moderna, Sanofi, and Seqirus. NFID policies prohibit funders from controlling program content.

Contact: Ned Berkowitz, 914-740-8255, Ned.Berkowitz@inizioevoke.com

View News Conferences Resources

NFID and partners waved their #FightFlu paddles and shared their Traveling Flu Bugs during the game, and the NFID public service announcement video, Are You That Person?, aired on the Jumbotron. The weather was perfect and the group of nearly 100 NFID supporters had a great night at the ballpark!

NFID has sponsored the annual event since 2012, skipping 2020-2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

View in Spanish

Join NFID to Help #FightFlu

Join NFID and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for the 2024 Annual News Conference on Preventing Respiratory Disease This Fall and Winter on September 25, 2024. Leading national infectious disease experts will present final respiratory vaccine coverage data from the 2023-2024 US respiratory season and will discuss the importance of vaccination against flu, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial disease (RSV), and pneumococcal disease. Results from a new NFID national survey of US adults on vaccination attitudes and behaviors will also be shared.

Panelists include: Mandy K. Cohen, MD, MPH, CDC Director; Demetre C. Daskalakis, MD, MPH, Director, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, CDC; Robert (Bob) H. Hopkins, Jr., MD, NFID Medical Director (Moderator); Flor M. Muñoz, MD, MSc, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Infectious Diseases, Baylor College of Medicine and NFID Director; and Reed V. Tuckson, MD, Managing Director, Tuckson Health Connections, LLC and Co-Convener of the Coalition For Trust In Health & Science.

Chair and Co-Founder, Black Coalition Against COVID.

Leading by Example

Show your commitment to disease prevention throughout the season by sharing your vaccination photos and/or videos on social media.

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter) using the hashtag #FightFlu, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that over the past 30 years, vaccines have prevented hundreds of millions of illnesses and saved more than 1 million lives among US children. Yet, despite this incredible success, some parents are still unsure about vaccinating their own children.

With National Immunization Awareness Month wrapping up, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) offers resources to help educate parents and raise awareness about why vaccines are so important, especially with the school year getting underway …

In this recorded webinar, NFID Medical Director Robert (Bob) H. Hopkins, Jr., MD, moderates a discussion on US immunization recommendations for children and adolescents. Featured experts Jessica N. Snowden, MD, MS, MHPTT, at University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, and NFID Director Matthew M. Zahn, MD, at OC Health Care Agency, highlight recent updates to US vaccine recommendations, current disparities in childhood and adolescent vaccination rates, and strategies to increase immunization rates.

The latest episode of the NFID series, Contagious Chronicles, features Hopkins and NFID Director Flor M. Muñoz, MD, MSc, at Baylor College of Medicine. They discuss vaccine recommendations to keep children safe throughout the school year and answer frequently asked questions from parents and caregivers.

As families gear up for a new school year, they stress the importance of making sure children are protected against preventable diseases. Vaccinations are a simple yet powerful way to keep children and teens healthy, so they can focus on learning, growing, and having fun. “Vaccines save lives,” said Hopkins, “and vaccines make adults.”

We are in a place right now after the COVID pandemic, where children and teens are at risk of getting exposed to diseases that we can prevent through vaccination. … We have the opportunity to prevent it, and it’s important to do. 

NFID Director Flor M. Muñoz, MD, MSc

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter) using the hashtags #IVax2Protect and #VaccinesSaveLives, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

WHAT:

Amid a surge of COVID-19 cases, the availability of updated COVID-19 and influenza (flu) vaccines, and new guidance on respiratory syncytial disease (RSV) vaccination, leading national public health experts will present final 2023-2024 US respiratory disease season data and results from a new national survey of US adults on vaccination behaviors and attitudes around flu, RSV, COVID-19, and pneumococcal disease. Experts will also discuss the impact of these findings and how the public can best protect themselves this fall and winter.

Mandy K. Cohen, MD, MPH, Director, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), will receive a flu vaccine during the news conference, and other panelists and advocates will also be vaccinated against flu at the onsite clinic following the news conference. A limited number of flu vaccines will be available for media attendees who register in advance.

WHO:

The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) and CDC. Expert panelists include:

• Mandy K. Cohen, MD, MPH, CDC Director
• Demetre C. Daskalakis, MD, MPH, Director, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, CDC
• Robert (Bob) H. Hopkins, Jr., MD, NFID Medical Director (Moderator)
• Flor M. Muñoz, MD, MSc, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Infectious Diseases, Baylor College of Medicine; NFID Director
• Reed V. Tuckson, MD, Co-Founder of the Black Coalition Against COVID; Chair of the Board of the Coalition For Trust In Health & Science

WHEN:

Wednesday, September 25, 2024

News Conference: 9:00–10:00 AM ET
Flu Vaccine Clinic: 10:00-11:00 AM ET

WHERE:

Virtual

In-Person: National Press Club, 529 14th Street, NW, Holeman Lounge (13^th Floor), Washington, DC 20045

Further instructions for in-person attendance will be provided following registration.

For more information, visit www.nfid.org/2024flunews.

Contact: IECommsNFID@inizioevoke.com

Download the episodes for a preview of their accomplishments …

A Leader for Global Health Equity—Seth F. Berkley, MD

Seth F. Berkley, MD, of the Pandemic Center of Brown University, will receive the 2024 Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Humanitarian Award in recognition of his work as a pioneer in global health and champion of equitable access to vaccines.

A physician and infectious disease epidemiologist, he shares insights from his notable career, including his impactful work in Uganda rebuilding the immunization program and developing the national AIDS control program, his work with Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and his trailblazing leadership of COVAX, which helped deliver more than 2 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines globally to 146 countries.

About 91% of families have access to at least 1 routine dose of vaccine. Of course, that means 9% don’t, and about 50% of child mortality occurs in that group.

Seth F. Berkley, MD

Medicine as a Tool for Good with Ighovwerha (Igho) Ofotokun, MD, MSc

Ighovwerha (Igho) Ofotokun, MD, MSc, of Emory University School of Medicine, will receive the 2024 Maxwell Finland Award for Scientific Achievement for his work as a renowned clinician-scientist combating the long-term impacts of HIV and addressing systemic inequities in research.

Now co-director of the Emory Center for AIDS Research Clinical Core, he shares his journey from growing up in Nigeria to becoming a leading HIV researcher, discussing the influences that shaped his career, the challenges he faced, and his significant achievements in promoting women’s health and improving US and international HIV treatment guidelines.

We can save lives. We’ve seen that with many outbreaks, with Zika, with Ebola. It’s a profession that is so fulfilling because you see a lot of devastation, but you can do something about it.

Ighovwerha Ofotokun, MD, MSc

Leading through Uncertainty with Grace M. Lee, MD, MPH

Grace M. Lee, MD, MPH, of Stanford Medicine Children’s Health and Stanford University School of Medicine, will be honored with the 2024 John P. Utz Leadership Award for her contributions as an inclusive and dynamic leader who guided US vaccine policymaking during the turbulent COVID-19 pandemic.

Lee, who served as chair of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) during the COVID-19 pandemic, shares her insights into the complexities and challenges encountered, the importance of vaccine safety, and concerns that keep her awake at night.

It was my responsibility to create a safe and respectful place and space to have robust discussions on challenging topics where there was great uncertainty. And I felt strongly that our discussions should be inclusive of a wide range of opinions, especially before a vote happened.

Grace M. Lee, MD, MPH

Join the Celebration

Join NFID for the 2024 NFID Annual Awards Gala and Silent Auction to celebrate these 3 heroes and support the important work of NFID. Reserve your seat at: www.nfid.org/2024Gala.

Make a donation to help support NFID. Donations directly contribute to the NFID mission to educate and engage the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. Every gift makes a difference!

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter) using the hashtag #NFIDAwards, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

NFID Resources

From brushing teeth to eating healthy foods to getting routine vaccines, there are things we do to protect ourselves throughout our lives. Low immunization rates put everyone at risk for vaccine-preventable diseases. The NFID Vaccines for Life videos and infographic help make the case that while recommendations may change as we age, the need for protection does not.

Vaccines are one of the safest prevention measures available and help play a vital role in keeping you healthy. When you skip vaccines, you leave yourself vulnerable to illnesses such as COVID-19, influenza (flu), and measles. Co-brandable NFID graphics help raise awareness with 10 Reasons to Get Vaccinated, also available in Spanish.
Children who do not have commercial insurance are eligible for free or low-cost vaccines through the federally funded Vaccines for Children (VFC) program. Yet, those who are eligible to receive vaccines through the VFC program have lower immunization rates than those with private insurance. Share these VFC resources, including social media graphics, fact sheets and videos:

CDC Resources

Vaccinating young children helps build immunity before children are exposed to potentially serious diseases. But vaccines are not just for children. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers graphics, videos, factsheets, and other resources (in English and Spanish) to highlight the importance of staying up to date on routine vaccines across the lifespan.

Voice for Vaccines Resources

Voices for Vaccines offers a convenient guide to posting on social media throughout NIAM. The guide includes a series of co-brandable graphics and post templates, organized by week, along with other tips for social media engagement. Themes include community immunity, vaccine-preventable diseases, and adult immunization.

Vaccinate Your Family

Vaccinate Your Family has created a Back-To-School Routine Immunization Campaign to help make sure children are protected and ready to learn as we gear up for another school year. From elementary school kids to college students, vaccinations are a critical step in keeping our schools and communities healthy. Share graphics and posts to help spread the word about the importance of back-to-school immunization.

Share Additional Resources

Know of other valuable tools and resources focused on raising awareness about the importance of vaccination? Share them so we can help spread the word …

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter) using the hashtags #IVax2Protect and #VaccinesSaveLives, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

The 2024 NFID awardees shared their thoughts on the greatest threats and opportunities facing public health today …

2024 Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Humanitarian Award: Seth F. Berkley, MD

Seth F. Berkley, MD, of the Pandemic Center of Brown University, will be honored in recognition of his work as a pioneer in global health and champion of equitable access to vaccines.

It is the best of times, it is the worst of times. Infectious diseases were the main killer of people throughout human history. Through vaccines, sanitation, and antimicrobial agents, we have reduced that burden down dramatically and doubled life expectancy. But today, we need to deal with the challenges from our own success: Increased risks of outbreaks and pandemics due to urbanization, migration, population growth, and climate change, but also antimicrobial resistance from the misuse of antibiotics. We need investment in new vaccines and antibiotics, and pandemic prevention and preparedness are not where they need to be.

My personal motto in life:  Live like you are going to die tomorrow, learn as though you are going to live forever.

Seth F. Berkley, MD

2024 Maxwell Finland Award for Scientific Achievement: Ighovwerha Ofotokun, MD, MSc

Ighovwerha (Igho) Ofotokun, MD, MSc, of Emory University School of Medicine, will be honored for his work as a renowned clinician-scientist combating the long-term impacts of HIV and addressing systemic inequities in research.

The past 2 decades have witnessed an unprecedented rise in infectious disease outbreaks, including anthrax, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), avian influenza, pandemic H1N1, Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), Ebola, Zika, SARS-CoV-2, and mpox. These outbreaks have been superimposed on a pre-existing and substantial baseline of global epidemics including HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, and the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance. Infectious diseases continue to be a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, accounting for 25% of all deaths globally. There is increasing recognition that for many infections, the damage to the body lingers beyond the acute phase and persists into a post-acute phase that may be associated with triggering life-threatening medical conditions such as autoimmunity, diabetes, cancer, and neuro-psychiatric disorders. One of the greatest challenges for the infectious diseases specialty is that of limited capacity and the need for versatility.

 Throughout my career as a physician-scientist, I have found the art of medicine intriguing. The art drives the science of medicine and gives it meaning and impact.

Ighovwerha Ofotokun, MD, MSc

2024 John P. Utz Leadership Award: Grace M. Lee, MD, MPH

Grace M. Lee, MD, MPH, of Stanford Medicine Children’s Health and Stanford University School of Medicine, will be honored for her contributions as an inclusive and dynamic leader who guided US vaccine policymaking during the turbulent COVID-19 pandemic.

Misinformation and disinformation are the greatest threats to our progress in protecting entire populations from vaccine-preventable diseases. While anti-vaccine activism and vaccine hesitancy has been present for decades, the last 5 years have been different. Anti-science groups have become organized and politicized in ways that have become almost mainstream. As scientists and public health advocates, we have an opportunity and a responsibility to engage the public more broadly. Our collective success will depend on our ability to become an organized movement that is able to communicate at scale and re-build trust in science.

My mother often said, “The moment you think you’re good, is when you no longer are.” Be humble, know that your path was paved by others, and remember your journey of learning is lifelong.

Grace M. Lee, MD, MPH

Join NFID on September 19, 2024

The 2024 NFID Annual Awards Gala and Silent Auction honors inspirational public health heroes who have helped protect the lives of millions. Join us to celebrate these 3 heroes and support the important work of NFID at the black-tie gala, which is the premier annual NFID fundraising event. Act now and reserve your seat at www.nfid.org/2024Gala.

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter) using the hashtag #NFIDAwards, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

In the latest episode of the NFID series, Contagious Chronicles, NFID Medical Director Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD and NFID spokesperson William Schaffner, MD, discuss updated recommendations to help protect against COVID-19, influenza (flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and pneumococcal disease, in preparation for the upcoming fall and winter.

“Everyone 6 months of age and older should get an updated COVID-19 vaccine if not already vaccinated,” Hopkins said. “And everyone age 6 months and older will need updated COVID-19 and flu vaccines this fall. Pregnant women and those at high risk may also need RSV vaccination. If you are older or have medical conditions, you may need pneumococcal vaccination.”

Hopkins also moderated a recent NFID webinar, Updates from June 2024 Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices (ACIP) Meeting, now available on demand, which featured Schaffner and Jessica R. MacNeil, MPH, from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), addressing the latest immunization policy updates, including new vaccine recommendations for respiratory diseases and other diseases.

Vaccination helps protect against serious disease outcomes, including hospitalization and death.

About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases

Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. NFID has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum transparency seal from Candid/GuideStar. For more information, visit www.nfid.org.

Contact: Diana Olson, dolson@nfid.org

Jeffery A. Goad, PharmD, MPH, is a professor of pharmacy practice and associate dean of academic affairs at Chapman University School of Pharmacy. He is the first pharmacist to serve as NFID president. A nationally recognized expert on travel medicine and immunization across the lifespan, he has maintained an active practice in travel medicine and immunization services for more than 20 years.

“One of the biggest challenges in public health today is political and social polarization,” Goad said in a recent episode of the NFID podcast Infectious IDeas. “NFID has the reputation and reach to educate and raise awareness among the public and healthcare professionals, but if people don’t trust the messenger, they won’t trust the message no matter how well we craft it. I look forward to building on the NFID history of collaboration to build an even stronger team with diverse perspectives to amplify messages that resonate and regain public trust.”

Goad is serving as NFID liaison to the Meningococcal Work Group of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).

Monica M. Farley, MD, is a professor of medicine and director of the Division of Infectious Diseases at Emory University School of Medicine. She is a past president of the American Federation for Medical Research and the Southern Society for Clinical Investigation. She serves as the principal investigator for the Georgia Emerging Infections Program (EIP), a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)-funded surveillance network of epidemiologic and clinical research groups focused on invasive bacterial pathogens, influenza, and foodborne diseases. Farley is an NFID subject matter expert on pneumococcal disease, Clostridioides difficile infections, and community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) disease.

Kevin A. Ault, MD, is a professor and chair of obstetrics and gynecology at Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine. He served as a voting member of ACIP during the COVID-19 pandemic and was an author of the 2023 adult, adolescent, and pediatric US immunization schedules, which include recommendations for maternal immunization and adult hepatitis B vaccination. He currently serves as NFID liaison to the ACIP Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine Work Group and the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Pediatric/Maternal Work Group. Ault is an NFID subject matter expert on maternal immunization, gonorrhea, chlamydia, herpes, RSV, and HPV.

Kevin M. Rooney is president of Beacon Consulting Group where he works with biopharmaceutical companies to drive greater value by addressing strategic business opportunities and issues. Throughout his career, he has had an extensive track record of successful leadership roles in the biopharmaceutical industry, and has run a successful consulting firm for more than 15 years.

Other new NFID Directors include Sean T. O’Leary, MD, MPH, and Matthew M. Zahn, MD. Orin S. Levine, PhD, of Tin Horse LLC, has been re-elected to serve an additional 3-year term as NFID Director.

Sean T. O’Leary, MD, MPH, is a professor of pediatrics and infectious diseases at the University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus and Children’s Hospital Colorado. He is also an investigator at Adult and Child Center for Outcomes Research and Delivery Science (ACCORDS) and director of the Colorado Children’s Outcomes Network (COCONet), a pediatric practice-based research network. His research focuses on prevention of vaccine-preventable diseases through understanding clinical, attitudinal, and infrastructural barriers to vaccination, and developing and testing interventions to address those barriers.

Matthew M. Zahn, MD, deputy health officer of the OC Health Care Agency, has worked in local public health for 20 years, including overseeing immunization and communicable disease control programs for a diverse county of 3.2 million residents. He led the public health response to community outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases including measles, mumps, meningococcal disease, hepatitis A, H1N1 influenza, pertussis, and COVID-19. Zahn also supervised his agency’s response to local outbreaks of multi-drug resistant organisms including Candida auris. He served as ACIP liaison for the National Association of County and City Health Officials and continues to serve as a pediatric infectious disease clinician at the Children’s Hospital of Orange County.

A complete list of the 2024-2025 NFID Board of Directors is below. This esteemed group of public health leaders officially began responsibilities on July 1, 2024. As the governing body, the Board of Directors establishes the strategic direction for NFID, ensures that annual goals are met, and provides financial oversight.

The NFID Board of Directors also expresses its appreciation to outgoing officers and Directors including Past President Patricia N. Whitley-Williams, MD, Secretary Ruth Lynfield, MD, and Director Sara E. Cosgrove, MD, MS for their leadership and contributions to NFID. Whitley-Williams will continue to serve as an NFID spokesperson and Lynfield will continue to represent NFID on the ACIP Work Group on Adult RSV.

2024-2025 NFID Board of Directors

• Kevin A. Ault, MD, (NFID Vice President) Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine
• Oliver T. Brooks, MD, Watts Healthcare Corporation
• Monica M. Farley, MD, (NFID President-Elect) Emory University School of Medicine
• Jeffery A. Goad, PharmD, MPH, (NFID President) Chapman University School of Pharmacy
• Jean-Venable R. Goode, PharmD, Virginia Commonwealth University
• Kathleen H. Harriman, PhD, MPH, RN, California Department of Public Health
• Orin S. Levine, PhD, Tin Horse LLC
• Julie Morita, MD, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
• Flor M. Muñoz, MD, MSc, Baylor College of Medicine
• Kathleen M. Neuzil, MD, MPH, (NFID Federal Liaison) Fogarty International Center, National Institutes of Health
• Sean T. O’Leary, MD, MPH, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus
• Kevin M. Rooney, (NFID Secretary-Treasurer) Beacon Consulting Group
• Patricia A. Stinchfield, RN, MS, CPNP, (NFID Immediate Past-President) University of Minnesota School of Nursing
• Matthew M. Zahn, MD, OC Health Care Agency

Ex-Officio:

• Marla Dalton, PE, CAE, NFID Executive Director and CEO
• Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD, NFID Medical Director

About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases

Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. NFID has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum transparency seal from Candid/GuideStar. For more information, visit www.nfid.org.

Contact: Diana Olson, dolson@nfid.org

• Spanish version of NFID website
• Data-driven approach to increasing US vaccine uptake
• Improving adult immunization rates
• Bird flu updates
• Upcoming NFID events
• NFID resources (webinars, podcasts, blogs)
• Partner spotlight
• More …

Message From Headquarters

In the latest episode of the NFID series Contagious Chronicles, NFID Medical Director Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD and NFID spokesperson William Schaffner, MD, discuss the current outbreaks. “First and foremost, stay alert. But don’t panic,” Hopkins said. “Please do stay away from sick or dead birds or animals. If you must be in contact with potentially sick animals or birds, use personal protective equipment including masks and gloves, and wash your hands afterward. If you have symptoms after you have been in contact with these animals, talk to a healthcare professional. While the current threat is low, we need to remain aware.”

Hopkins also moderated a June 18, 2024 NFID webinar, Updates on Avian Influenza A(H5N1), now available on demand, which addressed the epidemiology of avian influenza, current guidelines, and strategies for disease management and prevention.

About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases

Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. NFID has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum transparency seal from Candid/GuideStar. For more information, visit www.nfid.org.

Contact: Diana Olson, dolson@nfid.org

1. Get Vaccinated

Before you travel, make sure you and your family are up to date on all recommended vaccines. Talk with a trusted healthcare professional and check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) list of international destinations where certain vaccines are recommended. Some countries require vaccines and may ask for proof of immunization before entry. Depending on where you go, vaccines against diseases like chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis (JE), typhoid, and yellow fever may be necessary. Diseases such as measles and polio, which are rare in the US, still pose risks in other parts of the world but vaccination helps protect you at home and wherever you may travel.

Staying current on vaccinations is also important if you plan to travel within the US. As of June 2024, more than 150 measles cases have been reported in 21 states. Vaccination remains the best way to help protect yourself and your family from measles.

2. Wash Your Hands

Handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent illnesses like norovirus, a common cause of gastroenteritis that can quickly ruin a vacation. Norovirus, often called food poisoning or a stomach bug, causes 19-21 million cases of vomiting and diarrhea annually in the US, along with nearly 2.3 million outpatient visits. Proper handwashing can significantly reduce the risk of infection against norovirus and other diseases. Follow these steps each time you wash your hands to help ensure they are germ-free:

• Wet your hands with clean, running water
• Lather with soap, covering all surfaces
• Scrub well for at least 20 seconds
• Rinse thoroughly under clean, running water
• Dry your hands with a clean towel or air dry them

3. Protect against Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes can transmit diseases such as chikungunya, dengue, JE, malaria, and Zika. Whether you are traveling abroad or staying close to home, take measures to help prevent mosquito bites:

• Use bug spray on exposed skin
• Prevent standing water in drains, flowerpots, and other containers so that they do not become mosquito breeding sites
• Use screens on windows and doors and stay in air conditioned places when traveling
• Sleep under a mosquito bed net when outside or in a room that does not have screens
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants
• Cover water tanks so that mosquitoes cannot get in
• Keep garbage in closed plastic bags and closed containers

4. Watch out for Ticks

Ticks can spread Lyme disease and other illnesses, including Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Powassan virus. The best defense against these diseases is to prevent tick bites:

• Use bug spray on exposed skin
• Wear light-colored long-sleeved shirts and pants (to make it easier to spot ticks if they land on you)
• Check your body and clothing for ticks when you come indoors
• Remove attached ticks as soon as possible
• If you get a fever, rash, or other symptoms after a tick bite, talk with a trusted healthcare professional about antibiotics to help protect against Lyme disease

Additional Resources

Help raise awareness about disease prevention by sharing these NFID resources:

• Videos on the Right (and Wrong) Way to Wash Your Hands
• 10 Reasons to Get Vaccinated

By following these simple steps, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable summer for you and your family …

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter) using the hashtags #GetVaccinated and #WashYourHands, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

“NFID is committed to driving awareness about infectious diseases to motivate and empower people to take actions to help protect their health,” said NFID Executive Director and CEO Marla Dalton, CAE. “We are continuously looking for ways to make trusted information more accessible, including providing content in Spanish.”

The site features timely and updated information on COVID-19, influenza (flu), measles, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), rotavirus, and other infectious diseases, as well as antibiotic resistance, and 10 reasons to get vaccinated.

The site includes shareable educational resources for public health and healthcare professionals as well as others interested in learning about infectious diseases, including fact sheets, graphics, videos, and stories of those who have been impacted by infectious diseases.

“Everyone needs a trusted source for information on disease prevention and treatment,” said NFID Director Flor M. Muñoz, MD, MSc, of Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston, TX. “It is important that this information also be available in Spanish, which is the most common non-English language spoken in US homes.”

As part of the commitment to increasing health literacy and access, NFID continues to expand its resources to make them accessible to broader audiences, including adding new accessibility tools to the NFID website. “We hope that Spanish-speaking visitors will find the website to be a valuable and trusted resource, and we will incorporate feedback as part of our plan for continuous improvement,” Dalton said.

How to Find Spanish Content

• Visit the NFID Spanish website directly at es.nfid.org or
• Visit the English website (www.nfid.org) and select the globe icon at the top right navigation bar
• The next time you visit the NFID site, it will remember your most recent language preference and automatically redirect you to Spanish or English. Select “Cancel/Cancelar” to stay on the current language site.

About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases

Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. NFID has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum transparency seal from Candid/GuideStar. For more information, visit www.nfid.org.

Contact: Diana Olson, dolson@nfid.org

NFID Immediate Past-President Patricia N. Whitley-Williams, MD, presented a lightning talk, “Beyond the Headlines: Unveiling the Truth about Measles,” in which she explored the facts and myths about measles and the role of accurate reporting in helping the public make informed decisions to help protect their health and prevent the spread of this highly contagious disease. In a session on “Restoring Confidence in Public Health,” Mandy K. Cohen, MD, MPH, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), emphasized that members of the media play a key role on “team health” because of their ability to tell compelling stories and explain complex medical information in ways that resonate with audiences.

We need to be winning hearts, not just minds. The media can help us win hearts and minds as we do this work together.

-CDC Director Mandy K. Cohen, MD, MPH

Healthcare professionals and public health experts can help advance public understanding of healthcare issues by working with journalists to improve the quality and accuracy of health journalism. Read on for 5 reasons to engage with the media:

1. Enhance Public Understanding

Public health recommendations can be complex, with medical terminology and concepts that can be daunting for the public. Healthcare journalists excel at distilling this information into clear, understandable narratives. By engaging with members of the media, healthcare professionals, researchers, and public health experts can help ensure that their findings and recommendations are accurately conveyed. Well-informed journalists can help combat misinformation and disinformation, providing the public with reliable information to help guide behavior and decision-making.

2. Put a Human Face on Public Health Recommendations

Vaccine policy and other public health recommendations are based on data and science, but data alone cannot change minds or influence behaviors. People often underestimate the potential severity of vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles or influenza (flu). Journalists can help bring to light compelling stories of people who have been impacted by infectious diseases, as well as sharing the perspectives of healthcare professionals who care for them.

3. Build Trust and Credibility

With trust in many institutions waning, the credibility that a respected journalist or trusted influencer can bring is invaluable. They can act as impartial observers who can validate the statements made by healthcare professionals and researchers, lending added legitimacy to the information. By proactively engaging with journalists, subject matter experts can contribute to the narrative, fostering better coverage that is accurate and reflects nuanced medical science.

4. Promote Health Literacy

Health literacy involves the ability of individuals to obtain, process, and understand health information needed to make appropriate health decisions. Journalists can contribute to health literacy by translating scientific research into plain language and practical advice. Engaging with the media enables health experts to reach a broader audience, breaking down barriers to understanding and enabling people to make informed decisions about their health.

5. Encourage a 2-Way Dialogue

Engaging with the media should be a 2-way dialogue in which both parties learn from each other. Journalists gain insights into the latest medical research, public health recommendations, and clinical practices, while health experts can better understand public concerns and questions that need answering. This exchange has the potential to enrich both fields, leading to more informed journalism and more responsive health communications.

The media play a vital role in getting the word out so that people have accurate information and are empowered to make good decisions to help protect their health.

– NFID Immediate Past-President Patricia N. Whitley-Williams, MD

Resources to Help Improve Healthcare Coverage

NFID offers media resources, including subject matter experts, press releases, and news conferences, to help journalists improve their coverage of infectious diseases

Contagious Chronicles, a new NFID audio series, features timely insights from NFID experts providing relevant context and clear explanations on topics in the news, including bird flu, measles, norovirus, and other infectious diseases

The NFID podcast, Infectious IDeas, features thought-provoking conversations with public health leaders and experts, including newsmakers and leading healthcare journalists

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter), like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

With an overall theme of preparing for the future, the 2024 Annual Conference on Vaccinology Research, hosted by the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID), featured the latest scientific advances to prevent and manage infectious diseases, including respiratory, vector-borne, and other emerging and re-emerging diseases.

Oral abstracts featured research on the efficacy and safety of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines in older adults, COVID-19 vaccination, disparities in HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine uptake, vaccines for emerging and re-emerging diseases, and other research topics. A special session moderated by NFID Medical Director Robert (H. Hopkins, Jr. MD, highlighted research from the next generation of vaccinologists, including Nginache Nampota-Nkomba, MBBS, MSc, 1st place recipient of the 2024 Maurice R. Hilleman Early-Stage Career Investigator Award, who presented her research on typhoid conjugate vaccine duration of immunity and booster responses in Malawian children.

Mary Lou Clements-Mann Memorial Lecture in Vaccine Sciences: Ruth A. Karron, MD

Ruth A. Karron, MD, professor at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, presented the Mary Lou Clements-Mann Memorial Lecture in Vaccine Sciences as the opening keynote on RSV Vaccines and mAbs: The Future is Now. Her talk focused on uptake, safety, and coadminstration of RSV vaccines for older adults, as well as efficacy and safety considerations for use of nirsevimab in young infants. She also explored future possibilities for protecting older infants and toddlers, and lessons learned from other countries. Factors that have led to successful uptake in Spain and Argentina include substantial political will, national champions, and collaboration within and between branches of governments and professional societies. Given that 99% of global pediatric deaths due to RSV occur in lower- and middle-income countries, achieving true global impact requires the availability of products to protect young infants in the developing world.

Women Leaders in Vaccinology Panel Discussion:

An inspirational panel discussion moderated by NFID Director Kathleen M. Neuzil, MD, MPH, of the Fogarty International Center, National Institutes of Health (NIH) featured trailblazing women who shared personal stories and lessons learned throughout their impressive careers:

Marion Gruber, PhD, MS, International AIDS Vaccine Initiative: Vaccinology is a team sport … Follow your passion and don’t let anyone tell you it cannot be done … Make time for family … Recognize your own limitations … A good glass of wine every once in a while can help work wonders.

Jeanne Marrazzo, MD, MPH, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH: Mentorship often comes from surprising quarters and may not always be through formal relationships … Be open to opportunities and pay it forward … Advocate for yourself, make a spot for yourself in the research landscape, and enlist senior colleagues to help navigate that space … If you feel discouraged, find supporters, and don’t take no for an answer.

Nadine G. Rouphael, MD, Emory Vaccine Center, Emory University: Identify mentors, sponsors, coaches, and role models (male or female) based on your career needs … Your needs will likely change over the course of your career … Never be afraid of failure, as success comes when you can move between ‘failures.’

Tonya L. Villafana, PhD, MPH, AstraZeneca: Follow passions that allow you to stop thinking about work a bit: travel, eat well, spend time with family … Don’t take life too seriously … Don’t limit your options–the field of vaccinology is very broad.

Surround yourself at work with people who feed your soul.
-Jeanne Marrazzo, MD, MPH

The Future of Science Communications:

The closing session, a panel discussion moderated by NFID spokesperson William Schaffner, MD, featured experts addressing vaccine communication strategies to increase vaccine confidence and gain and maintain public trust in science:

Neil deGrasse Tyson, PhD: The difference between giving a lecture and being a communicator is meeting people where they are, understanding that people learn and think differently … Good communicators empower people to make decisions by sharing risks and benefits, for example, the risk of not getting vaccinated (disease) AND the risk of getting vaccinated (side effects)

Céline Gounder, MD, KFF and KFF Health News: Public health experts used to be gatekeepers of information, but people now have greater  access to information, increasing the importance of transparency … Be honest and open about uncertainties … Show empathy and demonstrate that you truly have people’s best interests at heart … Participate and identify local healthcare professionals for local community outreach.

Gillian SteelFisher, PhD, MSc, Harvard Opinion Research Program, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health: We have been told the sky is falling when it comes to trust, but trust in childhood vaccines increased during COVID-19—concerns were mostly about novel vaccines … The last mile is the future for communications … Building trust and empathy is hard at an institutional level and we must support (fund/employ) networks of community-based organizations … The people who are effective at getting you vaccinated are the same ones who help you pay your bills.

Abstracts News Coverage:

COVID-19

Enhancing Protection for Vulnerable Populations with Bivalent COVID-19 Vaccines: This study aimed to evaluate the relative vaccine effectiveness of 2 mRNA bivalent vaccines in US adults with underlying medical conditions linked to severe COVID-19. Source: ContagionLive

Influenza

Study Explores Relationship Between Vaccine Reactogenicity and Immunogenicity: The study assesses how reactogenicity of the inactivated influenza vaccine (IIV) correlates with its immunogenicity. Healthy adults experiencing higher reactogenicity from the IIV would develop higher antibody titers compared to those reporting lower reactogenicity. Source: ContagionLive

RSV

Survey Shows Low RSV Vaccine Uptake among Older Adults in the US: Among 440 older adults surveyed about RSV vaccination, only 26.4% received an RSV vaccine. 83.2% knew that RSV vaccines were available but only 22.3% had received a healthcare professional recommendation for vaccination. Source: Healio

Underrepresented Populations, Those with Lower Income at Higher Risk for Severe RSV: About 1 in 2 adults age 60 years and older had at least 1 diagnosed risk factor for severe RSV. Undiagnosed RSV risk factors were more common in certain diverse populations. Source: Healio

 #ACVR Social Media Highlights:

Insights from the @NFIDVaccines #NFID conference on vaccine registries and assessing the safety of vaccines for maternal and fetal health. #NFID2024 https://t.co/lG8AsB1ER4 pic.twitter.com/pyaXBMZuK9

— Contagion (@Contagion_Live) May 8, 2024

@NginacheVN presented today at #ACVR on #typhoid conjugate vaccine (TCV) immunity💉
Nginache and her team are making great strides to #TakeOnTyphoid! @NFIDVaccines @kathleen_neuzil @MLW_Programme #NFID

— Take on Typhoid (@PreventTyphoid) May 8, 2024

#ICYMI @NFIDVaccines #ACVR, updated analysis showed the #Moderna #RSV vaccine was efficacious and safe in seniors for 8 months after administration. #Medtwitter #IDtwitter https://t.co/Fok8bEwwsH

— Contagion (@Contagion_Live) May 8, 2024

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on Twitter using the hashtag #ACVR, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

Take the NFID poll to test your knowledge about hepatitis vaccination to help protect against liver disease and read on to learn more …

Liver disease, which affects millions of people in the US, can be a serious condition. An individual who has liver disease can have worse health outcomes if they are exposed to a new ‘hit’ to their liver that can subsequently damage their liver even more. This is why, in patients who already have some form of liver disease, vaccination for both hepatitis A and B is recommended.

Hepatitis A and B vaccines are recommended for many patient populations. Both vaccines are recommended for all children and many adults, including those at increased risk for acquiring these diseases. For example, hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for individuals traveling to countries where the virus is frequently encountered (including travel to Mexico), and universal hepatitis B vaccination is recommended in many settings, including for all infants, adults age 19-59 years, as well as healthcare workers given their possible exposure to blood.

Despite the widespread availability of safe and effective vaccines in the US for both of these viral illnesses, many individuals remain unprotected. That is a problem because hepatitis A can be serious, particularly for older children and adults. According to ALF, adults older than age 50 years and those with chronic liver disease are at increased risk of acute liver failure due to hepatitis A, a life-threatening event. And following infection with hepatitis B, some individuals carry the virus their whole lives as a chronic infection, which can lead to liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, and even death.

Importantly, both vaccines are recommended for patients with pre-existing liver disease. For example, in patients who are chronically infected with hepatitis C, for which there is currently no vaccine, acquiring hepatitis A or B can be very serious. Therefore, it is important for hepatitis C infected patients to be vaccinated for both hepatitis A and B. This is true for patients with many other types of liver disease as well.

Vaccines to protect against hepatitis A and B have been around for many years. There are combined vaccines available that can help protect against both hepatitis A and B at the same time, making it easy and convenient. Getting vaccinated and arming yourself with information is especially important if you already have a form of liver disease.

The American Liver Foundation supports routine vaccination for hepatitis A and B. This is especially important for patients with existing liver disease.

Additional Resources

Share these resources from ALF and NFID to help raise awareness among the public and healthcare professionals about viral hepatis and vaccines to help protect against hepatitis A and B:

• Hepatitis B Resources (NFID): Graphics, videos, webinars, and patient stories about hepatitis B
• Vaccines and Liver Disease (NFID): Information about vaccines recommended for people with liver disease
• Viral Hepatitis (ALF): Links to information about hepatitis A, B, C, D, and hepatitis C/HIV coinfection

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter) using the hashtag #PreventHepatitis, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

Handwashing is one of the best ways to protect yourself from many preventable diseases. But evidence suggests that most people do not know how to properly wash hands to leave germs behind.

To raise awareness about this easy, but important public health intervention, NFID developed an animated #WashYourHands public service announcement—available in English and in Spanish. The short videos describe the 5 key steps of proper handwashing: wet, lather, scrub well, rinse, and dry thoroughly. This video featuring NFID President Patricia (Patsy) A. Stinchfield, RN, MS, CPNP also illustrates the right (and wrong) way to wash your hands.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends washing your hands for at least 20 seconds, which is roughly the amount of time it takes to hum the Happy Birthday song twice. If you prefer another tune, several media outlets including the Los Angeles Times and CNN have published hand-washing playlists featuring artists from Dolly Parton to Prince. And Wash Your Lyrics even allows you to generate handwashing infographics with the lyrics to your favorite songs.

Help spread the word by sharing these handwashing videos from NFID:

If everyone routinely and thoroughly washed their hands, an estimated 1 million deaths could be prevented worldwide each year.

CDC has developed campaigns around campaigns around handwashing with resources including videos, graphics, and training materials for various audiences. Tools available include information about the science behind handwashing recommendations and a printable fact sheet, Handwashing: Keeping Your Family Healthy (available in multiple languages).  The Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) has also developed resources on hand hygiene, including a downloadable poster, When to Clean Your Hands.

Like staying up to date on recommended vaccines, hand hygiene is a key prevention tool that puts the power of prevention in our own hands! Share these resources and help spread the word … not disease.

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter) using the hashtag #WashYourHands, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

Bethesda, MD (May 2, 2024)—Leading experts in vaccinology research will explore the latest scientific advances to prevent and manage infectious diseases including respiratory, vector-borne, and other emerging and re-emerging diseases at the Annual Conference on Vaccinology Research hosted by the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) as an online event on May 8-10, 2024.

“The conference provides an exciting forum to engage with leading experts in vaccine research, development, and implementation and exchange knowledge and ideas that contribute to advances in vaccine science,” said NFID Medical Director Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD.

The 2024 program will include a brief update on the quickly evolving situation regarding avian influenza A (H5N1), commonly known as bird flu. With an overall theme of preparing for the future, symposia will address Next-Generation Respiratory Vaccines and Advancing Development of Vector-Borne Vaccines. Additional sessions will include Future Proofing Vaccine Safety focused on post-authorization safety, the work of global partnerships, and a look into the future of vaccine safety, and Planning Inclusive and Ethical Clinical Trials to address ethics and the inclusion of immunocompromised patients and pregnant women in clinical trials, as well as safety monitoring and reporting.

Ruth A. Karron, MD, professor at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, will present the Mary Lou Clements-Mann Memorial Lecture in Vaccine Sciences as the opening keynote on respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines and monoclonal antibodies, RSV Vaccines and mAbs: The Future is Now.

NFID Director Kathleen M. Neuzil, MD, MPH, incoming director of the Fogarty International Center and associate director for international research at the National Institutes of Health, will moderate the inspiring Women Leaders in Vaccinology Panel Discussion featuring trailblazing women sharing personal anecdotes and lessons learned throughout their careers, including:

• Marion F. Gruber, PhD, MS, vice president, public health and regulatory science, International AIDS Vaccine Initiative
• Jeanne Marrazzo, MD, MPH, director, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health
• Nadine G. Rouphael, MD, director, Hope Clinic, Emory Vaccine Center, Emory University
• Tonya L. Villafana, PhD, MPH, vice president, global franchise head and head of scientific affairs, Vaccines and Immune Therapies, AstraZeneca

The closing session on The Future of Science Communications will include a panel of experts addressing vaccine communication strategies to increase vaccine confidence, and gaining and maintaining public trust in science:

• Neil deGrasse Tyson, PhD, astrophysicist and Frederick P. Rose Director, Hayden Planetarium
• Céline Gounder, MD, ScM, editor-at-large for public health, KFF and KFF Health News
• Gillian SteelFisher, PhD, MSc, principal research scientist and director of global polling, Harvard Opinion Research Program, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health

Oral abstract sessions will focus on the efficacy and safety of RSV vaccines in older adults, post-COVID-19 childhood vaccination rates, disparities in HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine uptake, vaccines for emerging and re-emerging diseases, and other research topics. A special session highlighting research from the next generation of vaccinologists is scheduled for May 10, 2024, at 9:00 AM ET.

About the Annual Conference on Vaccinology Research

Sponsored by the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) for more than 25 years, the Annual Conference for Vaccinology Research is a well-established forum for the exchange of the latest scientific and clinical research in vaccinology between healthcare professionals, trainees and young investigators, government officials, and representatives from academia and industry. The 2024 conference will be held online on May 8-10, 2024. Visit www.nfid.org/acvr for additional information.

Contact: Diana Olson, dolson@nfid.org, 301-656-0003 x140

Immunization has been one of the great advances in medicine and has saved countless lives. However, despite overwhelming scientific evidence of the benefits of vaccination against a wide range of diseases, immunization rates have historically been low among communities of color for diseases including influenza (flu) and COVID-19.

New cases of measles have recently been reported in several states across the US, including Louisiana–illustrating what can happen when immunization rates fall short of public health goals. Measles is a childhood condition that should be rare, if seen at all, in the modern era. Despite being eligible to receive the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, some children have not been vaccinated, due to cultural barriers, limited access to care, and vaccine refusal.

In New Orleans, the Healthy Heart Community Prevention Project (HHCPP), a non-profit corporation whose mission is to promote heart health and to eliminate disparities associated with heart disease in vulnerable communities, recognizes the connection between immunization rates and healthy hearts. A 2022 American Heart Association Task Force report highlights the role of vaccination in preventing COVID-19 and potential cardiovascular complications related to the virus. Understanding the intricate relationship between viruses, vaccines, and heart health underscores the importance of vaccination for individuals with cardiovascular diseases. Infections such as COVID-19, flu, and pneumonia can trigger inflammation, exacerbating underlying heart conditions and increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and irregular heartbeats. COVID-19 is associated with an increased risk of having a heart attack or stroke, and heart attack risk is higher in the week after having the flu.

To help under-immunized communities benefit from vaccination coverage, clinicians and public health officials must tailor approaches in 4 key ways:

1. Develop culturally appropriate educational materials: Community programs and public health efforts must practice cultural humility to create an environment promoting open dialogue and trusted partnerships with impacted communities. The Association of Black Cardiologists (ABC) offers culturally sensitive and patient-friendly resources including a Flu-Vaccination Decision-Making Guide (in English and Spanish), which provides fact-based information about available options while considering the patient’s values, questions, and preferences.
2. Lead by example to dispel vaccine myths: Healthcare professionals should get vaccinated themselves, have informed discussions with patients, counter misinformation with evidence-based information, and enlist trusted community leaders to advocate for vaccines and boost confidence and uptake.
3. Overcome language barriers: Local integrated health systems, such as Tulane clinical services, provide various services free of charge to better accommodate the diverse New Orleans community, including qualified sign language interpreters and written information in various languages for patients and families who prefer to communicate in a language other than English.
4. Build relationships with community leaders: HHCPP participates on Community Advisory Boards (CABS) to glean insights from the community perspective, serving as a bridge between academic institutions, researchers, and communities. CABS provide insight and considerations into the cultural, societal, and environmental contexts of communities, enabling the tailoring of interventions to meet people where they are. They also provide input on potential barriers, steps for study completion, and strategies for sustainability, among other aspects. HHCPP also has a long history of working with local community partners such as the New Orleans Health Department and Sankofa Community Development Corporation, and national non-profit organizations including the National Minority Quality Forum, Center for Sustainable Health Care Quality and Equity, and others.

Cultural humility requires approaching disadvantaged and disparate populations with appropriate self-exploration and self-critique, combined with a willingness to learn from others.

Clinicians and public health officials must respect the beliefs and approaches to immunization of diverse communities, while simultaneously utilizing best practices to educate and motivate members of these communities to understand and welcome vaccination efforts.

Despite medical advancements, there remains a persistent mortality gap between Black and White populations in the US, largely attributed to cardiovascular disease and related conditions. Similar to what has been proposed by individuals and professional societies for the appropriate elimination of cardiometabolic and cardiovascular disparities nationwide, it is imperative that we apply evidence-based approaches to vaccination regardless of race, ethnicity, sex, gender, geography, socioeconomic status, and disability or ability.

Additional Resources

The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is committed to addressing health disparities, increasing health literacy, and supporting communities that are disproportionately affected by infectious diseases. Share these resources to help raise awareness among the public and healthcare professionals about the importance of disease prevention, particularly in communities of color:

• ABC Educational Resources: Culturally sensitive and patient friendly print and digital education resources on adult vaccination, COVID-19, flu, and other topics
• Flu Ready NOLA: HHCPP public health campaign that includes toolkits, graphics, videos, and social media posts to provide families with resources to better embrace evidence-based medicine supporting annual flu vaccination
• Show Up and Fight Flu Partner Toolkit: NFID toolkit to help address disparities in flu vaccination coverage and raise awareness among Black adults by emphasizing the importance of getting an annual flu vaccine

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter), like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

Bethesda, MD (April 23, 2024)—The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) and technology company Fraym are partnering on a pilot project to deliver novel, hyperlocal insights to empower public health stakeholders working to increase vaccine uptake across the US. Working in collaboration with NFID partner organizations, the Association of Immunization Managers (AIM) and the National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO), the goal of the pilot project is to assist those on the frontlines in deploying effective approaches to public health outreach and service delivery.

For more than 50 years, NFID has educated and engaged the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about disease prevention and treatment, including the importance of staying up to date on all recommended vaccines. “NFID and our partners share a commitment to help protect individuals and communities from the potentially serious complications of vaccine-preventable diseases, and we also share concerns that immunization coverage rates continue to lag behind US public health goals,” said NFID Executive Director and CEO Marla Dalton, PE, CAE. For example, influenza (flu) vaccination rates have hovered at about 50% for years, despite the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendation of annual flu vaccination for everyone age 6 months and older since 2010.

“Our goal is to map immunization attitudes, behaviors, and barriers to accelerate systemic progress by allowing changemakers to target messages and resources for specific groups in communities across the US,” said Fraym CEO and Co-Founder Ben Leo.

Partner organizations will play a key role in the comprehensive and granular mapping of vaccine uptake drivers across the US to transform how public health stakeholders tailor vaccine messaging and service delivery efforts. “NFID is excited to expand our work with partners who are driving immunization coverage at state and local levels,” said NFID President-Elect Jeffery A. Goad, PharmD, MPH. “With the leadership, experience, and input of partners, NFID aims to put data into the hands of local and state health departments and immunization advocates who can use it to help increase immunization rates.” As part of the NFID commitment to building vaccine confidence and ensuring health equity, the NFID Board of Directors approved funding for this pilot project.

About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases

Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. NFID has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum transparency seal from Candid/GuideStar. For more information, visit www.nfid.org.

About Fraym

Fraym is the preeminent global provider of geospatial data for understanding population dynamics. Governments and organizations around the world rely on Fraym data to make strategic and operational decisions while tackling challenges like inequity and insecurity, climate vulnerability, public health, and more. The company’s advanced AI/ML models are the first to generate high-resolution insights about human characteristics, behaviors, and attitudes at the sub-neighborhood level and make them commercially available at scale. For more information, visit https://fraym.io/.

About the Association of Immunization Managers

The Association of Immunization Managers (AIM) is a non-profit membership association comprised of the directors of the 64 federally funded state, territorial, and local public health immunization programs. AIM is dedicated to working with its partners nationwide to reduce, eliminate, or eradicate vaccine-preventable diseases. AIM also works to ensure the success of its members by providing support in their programming interests. Since 1999, AIM has enabled collaboration among immunization program managers to effectively control vaccine-preventable diseases and improve immunization coverage across the US and affiliated territories. For more information, visit www.immunizationmanagers.org.

About the National Association of County and City Health Officials

The National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) represents over 3,300 local governmental health departments. These city, county, metropolitan, district, and tribal departments work every day to protect and promote health and well-being for all people in their communities. For more information, visit www.naccho.org.

Contact: Diana Olson, dolson@nfid.org

Immunization is one of the most effective ways to help protect infants from serious diseases. Vaccines help the immune system recognize and fight specific infections, reducing the risk of illness and related complications. For parents, understanding the importance of infant immunization in helping to protect their children is crucial. Here are 5 key things to know about infant immunization:

1. Vaccines are Safe and Effective: Vaccines undergo rigorous testing before being approved or recommended for use. They are continuously monitored for safety and efficacy. Immunization has led to the eradication of diseases like smallpox and the near-elimination of others such as polio. Vaccines are a safe and effective way to help protect infants from serious and potentially fatal illnesses.
2. Vaccines Protect against Many Diseases: Infant immunization protects against a range of diseases, including measles, mumps, rubella, polio, hepatitis B, and more. By vaccinating infants according to the recommended schedule, parents can help protect their children from these diseases early in life.
3. Community Immunity is Important: Community (or herd) immunity occurs when a large percentage of a population is immune to a disease, making it unlikely to spread. This is particularly important for infants who are too young to be fully vaccinated. By vaccinating infants and children, parents not only help protect their own children but also contribute to community immunity, helping to protect vulnerable individuals who may not be able to get vaccinated.
4. Staying on Schedule is Important: Following the recommended vaccine schedule is essential to ensure infants are protected at the earliest possible age. The schedule is designed to provide immunity when infants are most at risk for certain diseases. Delaying vaccines can leave infants vulnerable to serious illnesses.
5. Cost Should Not Be a Barrier: Most health insurance plans cover the cost of vaccines. For those without insurance, the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program provides vaccines at no cost to eligible children, and helps ensure that all children have access to lifesaving vaccines, regardless of their ability to pay.

Infant immunization is a critical component of protecting infants from serious diseases. By understanding the importance of vaccines and following the recommended schedule, parents can help protect their children and contribute to the health of their community. Vaccines save lives, and infant immunization is an important step in giving infants a healthy start in life.

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter), like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

Bird Flu

Bird Flu in Humans, Explained: After a dairy worker in Texas was infected with a highly pathogenic strain of bird flu, disease trackers worry the recent outbreak among cattle could develop into a larger threat. The risk to the general public remains low, but experts are concerned about the possibility of the H5N1 virus evolving and more easily spreading from birds to other mammals … Although the virus has been detected in wild mammals such as red foxes, raccoons, opossums and skunks, experts said the virus poses a low risk to humans. People who contract bird flu are typically treated with supportive care and, in serious cases, with ventilators to help them breathe. There are also antiviral medications that are effective at treating the current strains, said William Schaffner, MD, a spokesperson for the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID). Source: The Washington Post

US Bird Flu Outbreak: What You Need to Know: By now, you have likely heard that the bird flu has been detected in some herds of dairy cows across 6 states–the first time the virus has infected cattle. And with Texas health officials confirming that a farm worker contracted the virus–only the second known case of the H5N1 virus infecting a person in the US–you may be wondering: Should I be worried? While the outbreak has raised concerns about possible risks to humans, the current risk to the public is low, said Schaffner. Source: WebMD

Measles

Measles Cases Rising—What Doctors Need to Know When Symptoms Present: According to CDC, as of April 4, 2024, a total of 113 measles cases were reported in 17 states across the US, and there have been 7 outbreaks (defined as 3 or more related cases) since the start of 2024. Although the number may seem modest, it represents a surge compared to previous years and is likely tied to decreased vaccination rates among kindergartners, CDC suggests. To offer insights on what health providers need to know, MedCentral talked to NFID Medical Director Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD. Source: MedCentral

Should You Get a Measles Booster? Cases of measles are rising in the US and around the world, which poses a risk for both children and adults who didn’t have the virus or the measles vaccine. Health organizations have recently raised alarm bells on increasing cases of measles in the US, and are urging children and adults who are not fully vaccinated to get the MMR vaccine, a combination shot that protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. Vaccination is especially important if families have international travel plans since cases are mounting outside the US as well. “Unimmunized adults and children are considered susceptible to measles,” said NFID President Patricia A. (Patsy) Stinchfield, RN, MS, CPNP. “Because the virus is so contagious, 9 out of 10 susceptible people who are exposed will get measles. It can be a miserable and potentially very serious disease for adults as well as children, and may include pneumonia, brain swelling, and loss of immune memory to other diseases.” Source: Verywell Health

Meningococcal Disease

6 Things to Know About Meningococcal Disease: Cases are increasing in the US, especially among adults. Do you know the warning signs? US health officials are warning doctors about an uptick in cases of meningococcal disease, a rare but serious illness caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis. Its occurrence has been decreasing over the last decade, in large part due to vaccines that can help prevent the disease, says NFID spokesperson William Schaffner, MD. Source: AARP

Q&A: What to Know about the Increase in Invasive Meningococcal Disease: CDC alerted clinicians in the US about a rise in invasive meningococcal disease caused by Neisseria meningitidis serogroup Y bacteria that could present with symptoms not typical of meningitis. According to CDC, 422 cases were reported in the US in 2023—the highest total since 2014. As of March 25, 2024, there were 143 reported cases this year, an increase of 62 compared with the same date in 2023. The fatality rate (18%) has been higher than normal for serogroup Y cases, and infections have disproportionately affected 3 populations: adults age 30 to 60 years (65% of cases), Black or African American people (63%), and people with HIV (15%), who have a higher risk for invasive meningococcal disease. Source: Healio

Stay Up To Date on Infectious Disease News

Tune in to Contagious Chronicles, a dynamic new series from NFID featuring timely insights from trusted experts on the latest developments in infectious disease prevention and treatment. If you have a burning question about infectious diseases, submit it via the online form and your question may just show up in a future episode of the series.

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter), like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

• Seth F. Berkley, MD: Entrepreneur, Pioneer in Global Health, and Champion of Equitable Access to Vaccines
• Ighovwerha (Igho) Ofotokun, MD, MSc: Renowned Clinician-Scientist Combating Long-Term Impacts of HIV and Addressing Systemic Inequities in Research
• Grace M. Lee, MD, MPH: Inclusive and Dynamic Leader Who Guided US Vaccine Policymaking During Turbulent COVID-19 Pandemic

Bethesda, MD (April 9, 2024)—The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) has announced the 2024 recipients of the prestigious NFID awards honoring outstanding individuals who have made significant and lasting contributions to public health through leadership, scientific achievement, philanthropy, and policy work. The following awards will be presented at the 2024 NFID Awards Gala in Washington, DC in September 2024:

Seth F. Berkley, MD, of the Pandemic Center of Brown University, will receive the 2024 Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Humanitarian Award in recognition of his work as an innovative entrepreneur, a pioneer in global health, and a champion of equitable access to vaccines. A physician and infectious disease epidemiologist, Berkley led Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance for 12 years, raising $33.3 billion and increasing coverage of routine immunization in lower-income countries. Gavi has vaccinated more than 1 billion children and introduced more than 600 new vaccines, reducing vaccine-preventable child deaths by 70%, and preventing more than 19.9 million deaths. While at Gavi, he co-created COVAX, a global multilateral solution that worked with partners and leaders of 193 economies to secure, ship, and help deliver nearly 2 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccine to 146 economies. He previously founded the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI) to develop an AIDS vaccine for developing countries. “Seth Berkley restlessly takes on and delivers on big challenges,” said Bruce G. Gellin, MD, MPH, of The Rockefeller Foundation in nominating Berkley. “Turning vaccines into vaccinations among the most vulnerable and ensuring that routine immunizations were indeed routine, he also played a pivotal role in changing the way the world prevents and responds to global health crises and epidemics.”

Ighovwerha (Igho) Ofotokun, MD, MSc, of Emory University School of Medicine, will receive the 2024 Maxwell Finland Award for Scientific Achievement in recognition of an exceptionally productive career devoted to addressing systemic inequities in research, promoting women’s health, nurturing a global research program targeting the prevention and treatment of disease, and mentoring the next generation of HIV clinical and translational researchers. An internationally renowned clinician-scientist, Ofotokun has long studied the threat that age-related comorbidities pose to healthy aging in people living with HIV, including the pathogenesis of HIV-induced end-organ damage. Findings from his research have led to the revision of HIV standard-of-care treatment guidelines in the US and, internationally, to World Health Organization policy changes that now prioritize antiretroviral regimens that are less risky for women. He has also expanded the visibility and representation of women and minorities in biomedical research and leveraged his expertise and influence to promote research education and training in the US and several other countries including Nigeria, Ethiopia, Georgia, and Vietnam. “He is an outstanding academic leader and researcher, a truly exceptional mentor, a respected clinician, and a valuable addition to an increasingly diverse, equitable, and inclusive workforce in infectious diseases,” said Kathryn M. Edwards, MD, of Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, in nominating Ofotokun.

Grace M. Lee, MD, MPH, of Stanford Medicine Children’s Health and Stanford University School of Medicine, will receive the 2024 John P. Utz Leadership Award in recognition of her outstanding leadership as chair of the US Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Grace Lee served during the turbulent times of COVID-19, marked by meetings, which were frequent, numerous, and at times challenging,” said NFID President Patricia (Patsy) A. Stinchfield, RN, MS, CPNP in nominating Lee. “She has been center-stage on difficult vaccine decisions and led conversations with an inclusive, patient, yet decisive, tone. She was the perfect person for the times, and we are all indebted to her.” Lee oversees the Center for Pediatric and Maternal Value at Stanford Children’s, which seeks to improve quality, safety, patient experience, and health equity across the organization. She has served on Institute of Medicine committees that reviewed priorities in the National Vaccine Plan and evaluated ethical and scientific issues in studying the safety of approved drugs. She has also participated on the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine committee on vaccine research and development for pandemic and seasonal influenza and is a member of the National Academy of Medicine. Lee continues to manage and treat young patients with infectious diseases.

Public Health Heroes To Be Honored at NFID Black-Tie Gala

The awards will be presented at the 2024 NFID Awards Gala and Silent Auction, a black-tie fundraising event scheduled for September 19, 2024, in Washington, DC. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities will be available online at www.nfid.org/awards. All contributions support the NFID mission to educate the public and healthcare professionals on the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases.

About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases

Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. NFID has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum transparency seal from Candid/GuideStar. For more information, visit www.nfid.org/awards.

Contact: Diana Olson, communications@nfid.org

Generosity as a Career Strategy: Barney S. Graham, MD, PhD

One of the great myths as people go through a career is that sharing and being generous with your resources, credit, and know-how will somehow harm you. What I have found in my career is that I often receive more credit, the more I try to give credit away. It is a surprising, non-intuitive phenomenon, but  I would encourage people to be generous with the way they share resources and knowledge.

Vaccine Safety: Rochelle P. Walensky, MD, MPH

There are myths about vaccine safety that I don’t want to repeat. We need to acknowledge that there are very rare but important side effects from vaccines. We have the largest vaccine safety system in the world that can find these needles in haystacks. We need to be aware of them. We need to be concrete and honest, and we need to tell people what we know. But it’s critically important to recognize that vaccines have undergone incredible safety and efficacy studies and that they are overwhelmingly beneficial.

Natural Infection Versus Vaccination: Carol J. Baker, MD

Natural infection certainly does build immunity. But while you’re building immunity, depending on the situation, you may die, or you may have a complication which is terrible.

Healthy People and Vaccines: Peter Marks, MD, PhD

Here is the myth: I’m young and healthy, so I don’t need to get vaccinated against COVID-19 or flu. The truth is, although the likelihood is low that you could be hospitalized or die from one of these infections, the possibility does exist. Why take any chances when there are such highly safe preventive measures that one can take?

Debating Science: Peter J. Hotez, MD, PhD

The myth I’d like to dispel is that science is something that is up for debate. That’s not how we do science. You debate 18^th century enlightenment philosophy. You debate politics. But science is not something typically achieved through debate. It is hard-slogging work. And I can’t think of too many examples where science was advanced through debate.

What Is Public Health? Mandy K. Cohen, MD, MPH

Public health is  more than just a  response to a respiratory virus. Public health is ensuring pregnant moms have the resources they need to have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy delivery. It’s supporting our states to make sure that folks in every community are living their most abundant and purposeful life. It’s making sure that we are not seeing early deaths or early morbidity. We want folks to be living those full lives of abundance and purpose. And that is what public health is meant to do—it’s not just protect you from infectious disease, but really make sure this country is healthy for the long term.

Wearing Masks: Tom Frieden, MD, MPH

Another myth is whether or not masks work. Nothing is going to work perfectly. But it’s quite clear that when people wear masks, they’re less likely to spread or get infected by different germs. And the tighter the mask fits, the higher quality mask, the more effective that will be. I think these myths are really important to address because unless we come to better terms with this as a society, we’re going to be less well-prepared for the next health threat that we face.

Flu Vaccines: Céline Gounder, MD, ScM

What is the myth that I would most like to bust? … Off the top of my head that the flu vaccine gives you the flu … You heard it here. It does not. It does not!

Downloaded nearly 7,500 times in more than 50 countries, Infectious IDeas features inspiring leaders and pioneers in the field. Episodes drop on the 1st Wednesday of each month …

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To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter), like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast and Contagious Chronicles, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

• Measles resurgence
• Addressing gaps in vaccine access and coverage
• 2024 Annual Conference on Vaccinology Research
• NFID resources (webinars, podcasts, blogs)
• Partner spotlight
• More …

Message From Headquarters

Kidney disease affects millions of people worldwide, and it is important for those with kidney disease to understand how important vaccines are to their overall health. Vaccines play a crucial role in preventing infectious diseases and there are specific considerations for people with kidney disease. Here are 3 key things you need to know about vaccines and kidney disease:

1. Vaccine Effectiveness: People with kidney disease are at a higher risk of developing serious complications from infections, making vaccination particularly important. However, their immune response to vaccines may be weaker compared to those with healthy kidneys. This means that vaccines may be less effective in people with kidney disease, especially those undergoing dialysis or with advanced kidney failure. Despite this, getting vaccinated is still recommended because even partial protection can reduce the severity of disease.
2. Vaccine Safety: Many vaccines are safe for those with kidney disease, but there are some exceptions. Live vaccines, such as measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, and nasal spray flu vaccine, are generally not recommended for people with weakened immune systems, including those with kidney disease. Instead, they should opt for inactivated vaccines, which are made from killed viruses or bacteria and are considered safe for people with kidney disease.
3. Timing and Frequency: The timing and frequency of vaccinations for people with kidney disease may differ from those without kidney disease. Some vaccines, such as hepatitis B vaccines, may need to be given in higher doses or more frequently to ensure adequate protection. It is important for people with kidney disease to discuss vaccination with a trusted healthcare professional, who can make recommendations specific to individual circumstances.

Vaccines are an essential part of protecting the health of those with kidney disease—while their immune response to vaccines may be weaker, getting vaccinated still provides valuable protection against serious infections. It is important for people with kidney disease to work closely with a trusted healthcare professional to ensure they receive the right vaccines at the right time and in the right dosage. Doing so can help protect their health and well-being.

Read more about Vaccines Recommended for People with Kidney Disease

Share these social media graphics to help raise awareness:

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter) using the hashtags #GetVaccinated and #LowerYourRisk, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast and Contagious Chronicles, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) will host an inspiring and interactive online panel discussion featuring influential Women Leaders in Vaccinology sharing personal stories and lessons learned throughout their careers, at the 2024 Annual Conference on Vaccinology Research. Read on for insights from these trailblazing women leaders …

Marion Gruber, PhD, MS
Vice President, Public Health and Regulatory Science
International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI)

Advice for the next generation: Follow your chosen career path and passion, and do not let others tell you it is too difficult or cannot be done. Strive to have a healthy work/life balance and take things with a little humor!

Favorite quote: “Women belong in all places where decisions are being made.” (Ruth Bader Ginsburg)

I became interested in vaccinology when I worked as a PhD student in immunology. Improving lives by making safe and effective vaccines available is critically important and very rewarding. This includes people in my own family, in my community, people in the US, and globally. We are only safe from life-threatening infectious diseases when everybody across the globe has access to life-saving vaccines.

Jeanne Marrazzo, MD, MPH
Director
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH)

Advice for the next generation of women leaders: Never underestimate your potential, and identify sponsors and mentors who really have your back!

As an infectious disease specialist, I’ve seen firsthand the consequences of many infections that are now preventable by immunization—not just in areas of the world where vaccine coverage is suboptimal, but in places where lack of uptake has placed people at risk. Once you’ve seen a case of tetanus, diphtheria, or pneumonia in an adult due to measles, you don’t forget it. Optimizing the potential of vaccines to deliver safe, effective prevention is something we should all strive for.

Kathleen M. Neuzil, MD, MPH
NFID Vice President
Myron M. Levine Professor in Vaccinology
University of Maryland School of Medicine

I cannot imagine a more rewarding career than one in vaccinology–it combines cutting-edge science with public health impact and allows me to work with inspiring people every day.

Nadine G. Rouphael, MD
Director, Hope Clinic, Emory Vaccine Center
Emory University

Advice for the next generation: Believe in yourself and advocate for others, invest in a support network and find balance, embrace change yet stay authentic to yourself. Most importantly, love what you do and have fun.

Favorite quote: “I never lose; I either win or learn.” (Nelson Mandela)

I grew up in an environment and a time where vaccines were transformational. The (immunologic) equity vaccines provided is unmatched. In 2006, while at a conference, I heard Katheryn (Kathy) M. Edwards, MD say on the field of vaccinology: “I cannot wait to wake up in the morning and go to work.” As an incurable snoozer, I told myself: “I want that career.”

Tonya L. Villafana, PhD, MPH
Vice President, Global Franchise Head and Head of Scientific Affairs, Vaccines & Immune Therapies
AstraZeneca

Advice for the next generation: Find what you love doing, have confidence in yourself, and trust your judgment! With a career in vaccinology research, there will be wins and there will be setbacks but leading with patience and conviction will keep everyone focused on the common goal of improving public health.

Something I learned early in my life from attending an all-girls school is that there is power in women coming together as a community. I am honored to be part of this panel and look forward to discussing our collective experiences, challenges, and wins as women in vaccinology.

I was inspired to become a scientist by my dad, who has a background in agricultural sciences and instilled a curiosity in me about the  world. I also developed a love for science at the all-girls high school I attended in Trinidad. I became specifically interested in vaccinology  in college when our understanding of HIV began to emerge and after graduate school when I saw the devastating impacts of the HIV  epidemic, particularly among vulnerable populations globally. I moved to Botswana to focus on HIV vaccine research and community  education where I felt I could make a difference.

Get Inspired

Learn more from these pioneers and other thought leaders in vaccinology at the 2024 Annual Conference on Vaccinology Research scheduled as an online event on May 8-10, 2024.

Register now to help shape future breakthroughs in vaccinology.

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter) using the hashtags #ACVR and #WomenInScience, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast and Contagious Chronicles, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates. 

As of February 2024, 41 measles cases have been reported in 16 states, including Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington. By comparison, a total of 58 cases were reported in 2023. Measles was declared eliminated in the US in 2000, but cases still occur when international travelers who get measles overseas bring it into the US or as cases spread in US communities with pockets of unvaccinated people.

“Measles is highly contagious and can be very serious,” said NFID President Patricia (Patsy) A. Stinchfield, RN, MS, CPNP. “It can lead to severe complications including pneumonia, seizures, brain damage, and even death.” About 1 in 5 unvaccinated people in the US who get measles will be hospitalized, and 1-3 out of every 1,000 people with measles will die, even with the best care.

Measles is so contagious that if an individual has measles, 9 out of 10 of their close contacts who are not immune will also become infected. Infected people can spread measles to others from 4 days before through 4 days after the rash appears. “Even one case of measles raises alarm bells because the disease is so contagious,” said NFID Director Kathleen H. Harriman, PhD, MPH, RN, who has supervised public health programs in Minnesota and California and has worked on many measles outbreaks over the years.

How To Prevent Measles

“The good news is that measles is easy to prevent with safe and effective vaccines,” said Stinchfield. “Getting 2 doses of MMR vaccine results in 97% protection, providing lifelong immunity.”

In the US, infants normally get their first measles vaccine between age 12-15 months followed by another dose at age 4-6 years. Anyone born in 1957 or later who has not been vaccinated or has not had measles should be vaccinated. “If you are not sure whether you were vaccinated,” Stinchfield said, “it is safe to get another measles vaccine, unless you are immunocompromised or pregnant. Talk with a healthcare professional to find out if you should get vaccinated.”

Infection control experts recommend that unvaccinated people who are exposed to measles should receive MMR vaccine within 72 hours of exposure. “Vaccination is highly effective in preventing measles if given in this window, which allows the person to return to work or school. If not vaccinated, the exposed person should stay home and avoid public settings for 21 days to prevent spreading the disease to others,” noted Stinchfield.

There are no specific antiviral drugs currently available to treat measles. Severe measles cases among children, including those who are hospitalized, may be treated with vitamin A, according to an NFID report on Vitamin A for the Management of Measles in the US.

NFID experts are available to talk about measles, the recent increase in cases in the US, the importance of measles vaccination as recommended, and treatment with vitamin A for severe cases.

About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases

Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. Visit www.nfid.org/measles for more information.

Contact: Diana Olson at dolson@nfid.org

Contagious Chronicles: Measles Alert

To close out Black History Month, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) asked public health thought leaders to share their insights on overcoming health disparities and ensuring health equity:

Keith C. Ferdinand, MD, Tulane University School of Medicine (Gerald S. Berenson Endowed Chair in Preventative Cardiology): Health disparities among people of color and other disadvantaged populations are a toxic gumbo of limited access, suboptimal health literacy, and bias in the application of evidence-based medical care. The most important thing clinicians and public health officials can do is to educate and empower patients to seek the best care available at all times, including recommended vaccinations.

Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD (NFID Medical Director): I see these 3 issues as the pillars on which solutions to improve health disparities rest:

• • Access/Availability: In many rural and urban areas, people need better access to, and availability of, primary healthcare, sources of healthy food, and facilities for healthy physical activity
  • Cost Barriers: Solutions that address cost for those who have lower household income and/or are under- or uninsured will go a long way to addressing disparities
  • Value/Trust/Demand: Community partnerships that facilitate trusted relationships between members of communities, public health, healthcare professionals, and social organizations can help build understanding and trust in vaccination and other interventions that can prevent or reduce the impact of chronic diseases

Kathleen M. Neuzil, MD, MPH, University of Maryland School of Medicine (NFID Vice President): We need both scientific advances and political will to address health disparities and reduce inequities—neither alone will get us where we need to be.

Patricia N. Whitley-Williams, MD, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School (NFID Immediate Past-President): The constructs of racism at the systemic, institutional, intrapersonal, interpersonal, and community levels lead to health inequities. Addressing the unequal distribution of resources (to have an impact on the social determinants of health), and adjusting the allocation of power are fundamental to moving toward closing the health disparity gaps in communities of color.

Dismantling racism is the most important thing that can be done to address health disparities that result in poor health outcomes in communities of color.

Patricia N. Whitley-Williams, MD, Immediate Past-President of the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID)

Additional Resources

NFID, working with partner organizations, is committed to addressing health disparities, increasing health literacy, and supporting communities that are disproportionately affected by infectious diseases.

Share these NFID resources to help raise awareness among the public and healthcare professionals about the importance disease prevention, particularly in communities of color.

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter), like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

Measles Cases Are Popping Up in US: Are You Immune? Influenza (flu), COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are not the only viruses concerning health experts this winter. Several cases of measles—an illness that was effectively eliminated from the US more than 20 years ago—have popped up in a handful of states. “Even 1 case of measles is something that we should all sit up and pay attention to,” says Patricia A. Stinchfield, RN, MS, CPNP, president of the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID). “And the reason for that is, it is the most contagious and easily transmittable virus that we have.” Source: AARP

Do You Need a Measles Booster? Your Birth Year Will Reveal the Answer: The highly effective vaccine is the only way to stop this contagious virus in its tracks. While there’s no antiviral treatment for measles, the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is more than 90% effective against measles. With this spike in cases, should people consider getting a booster shot? NFID Past President Walter A. Orenstein, MD, said that the easiest way to tell if you need a booster is to consider the year you were born. Source: Inverse

Measles Should Be Long-Forgotten. Why Are Cases Rising in the US? Not surprisingly, a lot of it has to do with not getting vaccinated, says NFID spokesperson William Schaffner, MD. “There are some parents who have withheld vaccination from their children,” he says. “It’s vaccines that have eliminated these diseases. If you withhold vaccination, you will create pockets of susceptibility.” Source: MSN/Yahoo Life

How the Anti-Vaccine Movement is Downplaying the Danger of Measles: Wellness influencers and anti-vaccine activists have reacted to measles outbreaks by spreading misinformation about the disease. As outbreaks of measles spread throughout the world, anti-vaccine activists are not just urging people not to get vaccinated—they’re taking a page from a well-worn playbook, falsely downplaying the dangers of the highly contagious respiratory disease. Measles—a disease so contagious it acts as a bellwether for threats from other infectious diseases—is marked by fever, flu-like symptoms, and an itchy rash, and sometimes comes with dire complications including pneumonia, seizures, and brain damage. Source: NBC News

It’s No Surprise There’s a Global Measles Outbreak. But the Numbers Are ‘Staggering’: Measles is on the rise around the world, and even experts who saw it coming say the increase is “staggering.” The most recent global numbers from the World Health Organization (WHO) reveal that measles cases increased worldwide by 18% to about 9 million, and deaths rose 43% to 136,000, in 2022 compared to 2021. “Measles is called the inequity virus for good reason. It is the disease that will find and attack those who are not protected,” says Katherine L. O’Brien, MD, MPH, WHO director for immunization, vaccines, and biologicals (and 2022 recipient of the NFID Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Humanitarian Award). Source: NPR

Measles: Woman Who Fell Seriously Ill Urges Everyone to Get Vaccinated: Ellie Roscoe, now 29, spent a week in hospital at age 22 when she developed a rash and high temperature that left her delirious. As her condition deteriorated, doctors carried out further tests. “It turned out to be measles. It affected my lungs and liver as well,” she said and she now has ongoing health problems. Her mother decided against a measles vaccine when she was a child over long-debunked fears of a link to autism. Now, she says everyone should get the jab. Source: Sky News

Map: See Where Measles Cases Are Being Reported across the US: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued an emergency warning on January 25, 2024, telling the public to remain vigilant after 23 cases were confirmed in several different states. The case count remains low, but reports of new infections have continued to pop up in states across the US, with some tied directly to international travelers. Source: USA Today

Measles Outbreaks: What to Know about Growing Concern: “Those of us in healthcare are definitely paying attention,” said Patricia Stinchfield, NFID President. Stinchfield, who has over 4 decades of experience in pediatric nursing and has overseen measles epidemic response teams, said the medical community should be on “high alert” as cases pop up across the country. Source: Washington Examiner

“One case of measles is considered a public health emergency no matter where it is because of how transmissible it is.”

Patricia A. Stinchfield, RN, MS, CPNP, President of the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID)

Share Resources to Help Spread Awareness

Measles can be serious: About 1 in 5 unvaccinated people in the US who get measles will be hospitalized. Help raise awareness about how easy it is to spread measles, how serious it can be, and how simple it is to prevent.

Share these NFID videos and graphics using the hashtag #PreventMeasles:

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter) using the hashtag #PreventMeasles, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

For people with heart disease, getting vaccinated is as important to staying healthy as diet and exercise.

Heart disease can make it harder for your body to fight off disease and can increase the risk of serious complications from certain diseases, including COVID-19, influenza (flu), pneumococcal disease, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)—each of which can increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. These respiratory diseases can cause inflammation, which can lead to blood clots and blocked arteries in people with heart disease.

Here are 5 reasons why getting vaccinated is good for your heart:

1. Fight Flu: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), among people hospitalized with flu this season, about 90% had at least 1 chronic health condition, and 45% of adults hospitalized for flu from October-November 2023 had heart disease. People with heart disease are 6 times more likely to have a heart attack within a week after getting flu.
2. Pneumonia Prevention: People with heart disease are at increased risk of hospitalization and even death from complications of pneumococcal disease, which can include pneumonia and other serious infections.
3. COVID-19 Concerns: People with COVID-19 are 3-8 times more likely to have a heart attack and 3-7 times more likely to have a stroke. Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 not only reduces the risk of severe illness, but also helps prevent potential cardiovascular complications linked to the virus.
4. Prevent RSV: RSV is a common respiratory virus that impacts people of all ages and can be serious. Complications such as heart attacks and heart failure occur in about 20% of adult patients hospitalized with RSV.
5. Increased Immunity (and Overall Well-Being): Getting vaccinated is part of a healthy lifestyle, particularly for those with heart disease. Vaccination helps protect against specific diseases and contributes to overall immune system strength. Like eating healthy foods, exercising, and getting regular check-ups, vaccines can play a vital role in keeping you healthy.

Find Out What Vaccines Are Recommended for People with Heart Disease

Throughout February, NFID will observe American Heart Month by reminding iHeartRadio listeners that getting vaccinated is good for your heart:

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter), like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

Each January, we are reminded of the progress made in cancer prevention, and the work yet to be done. The faces and stories of those who lost their battle with cancer, and the voices of the survivors, caregivers, and families, remind us of the importance of eliminating human papillomavirus (HPV)-related cancers, starting with cervical cancer.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 13 million people in the US will be newly infected with HPV each year. While most HPV infections present no symptoms and can clear on their own, some infections can lead to a cancer diagnosis. HPV can cause cervical, vulvar, vaginal, penile, anal, and mouth and throat cancers. Many HPV-related cancers may not be detected until health problems arise, which underscores the need for HPV vaccination. Although HPV vaccines are a critical tool for protection and prevention, vaccination rates are lower in the US than in other countries.

Cervical cancer is the only HPV-related cancer with a recommended screening test for detection at an early stage, yet many cases still go undiagnosed. While recent data have shown that cervical cancer rates in the US have declined, in 2023, ACS estimated that 13,960 cases of invasive cervical cancer would be diagnosed and about 4,310 women would die from the disease in the US.  The current opportunistic approach to cervical cancer screening in the US fails to reach many who are at risk, including people living in low-resource, medically underserved areas. Thus, invasive cervical cancer is strongly linked to socioeconomic, geographic, and/or racial disparities. Annual rates of cervical cancer incidence and mortality in these populations are several times higher than in the general US population and are similar to rates observed in some lower-income countries.

How to Prevent Cervical Cancer

What can we do to help prevent cervical cancer? Here are 2 important steps:

Start HPV Vaccination at Age 9: HPV vaccination prevents more than 90% of cancers caused by HPV when given at the recommended ages of 9-12 years. ACS recommends routine HPV vaccination of 2 doses for boys and girls starting at age 9 years. New research has reinforced the benefits of starting HPV vaccination at age 9; however, teens and young adults age 13 to 26 years who have not been vaccinated or who have not received all recommended doses of HPV vaccines should be vaccinated as soon as possible.

Use Screening for Early Detection: Screening tests offer the best chance to diagnose cervical cancer early, when treatment is most effective. Screening can prevent most cervical cancers by finding abnormal cervical cell changes (pre-cancers) so they can be treated before they become cervical cancer. Cervical cancer testing (screening) should begin at age 25 years. ACS recommends cervical cancer screening with a primary HPV test every 5 years for individuals age 25-65 years who have a cervix and are at average risk of cervical cancer. If a primary HPV test is unavailable, co-testing (HPV testing in combination with a Pap test) every 5 years or screening with a Pap test alone every 3 years is acceptable.

Learn More about Cervical Cancer and HPV Vaccination

The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) and ACS and have developed complimentary resources about HPV, vaccination, and cervical cancer:

• 5 Key Steps to Improve HPV Vaccination Rates (NFID): Quick-reference graphic for healthcare professionals
• HPV Social Media Posts and Graphics (NFID): Shareable graphics and sample social media posts
• Start HPV Vaccination at Age 9 (ACS National HPV Vaccination Roundtable): Videos, graphics, core messages, and fact sheets
• Guidelines for the Prevention and Early Detection of Cervical Cancer (ACS): Cervical cancer causes, risk factors, screening, and prevention
• HPV Vaccine Facts (ACS): Facts you should know about HPV vaccines

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID and the National HPV Roundtable on X (Twitter), like NFID on Facebook, follow NFID on Instagram, visit NFID on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates

Kevin A. Ault, MD, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine (NFID Director): In 2023, there were 2 new approaches to prevent respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in newborns—a monoclonal antibody and a maternal vaccine. Both of these approaches show promise in preventing this common but potentially serious respiratory infection. NFID should take the lead in education and advocacy for these interventions for the remainder of the 2023-2024 RSV season and beyond.

Marla Dalton, PE, CAE, NFID Executive Director and CEO: As we venture into 2024 and beyond, my vision for NFID is to continue leading the charge against infectious diseases, fostering collaborations with key partners, improving health literacy, and leveraging innovation to reduce health disparities and make a lasting impact on public health.

Monica M. Farley, MD, Emory University School of Medicine (NFID Director): 

• Stimulate vaccine confidence
• Educate healthcare professionals and the public on increasingly complex vaccine recommendations
• Reduce inequities in access to vaccines

Jeffery A. Goad, PharmD, MPH, Chapman University School of Pharmacy (NFID President-Elect): For 2024, I wish for NFID to become the most trusted partner for communicating with the public and healthcare professionals about the importance of preventing infectious diseases, especially vaccine-preventable ones. With the rise of anti-science movements, now more than ever, it’s important for the public to get clear and accurate information from trusted sources.

Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD, NFID Medical Director: In 2024, I see NFID continuing a collaborative approach to improve the health of all.  This will be achieved by public education to increase knowledge and understanding of the value, importance, and safety of preventive vaccines; provider support and education to facilitate effective communication and immunization of patients and families; and advocacy to facilitate vaccine confidence and overcome barriers to equal access to vaccines for all.

Orin S. Levine, PhD, Tin Horse LLC (NFID Director): I hope that in 2024, NFID brings innovation to immunization programs to help reduce vaccine inequalities and control infectious diseases.

Julie Morita, MD, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (NFID Director): I am hopeful that NFID efforts in 2024 will result in increased awareness of and trust in vaccines among vaccine-hesitant communities, especially those that have been historically marginalized, including communities of color, low income, and rural communities.

Patricia A. Stinchfield, RN, MS, CPNP, University of Minnesota School of Nursing (NFID President): My hope for 2024 is that NFID becomes as recognizable a name as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), with the trust of the American Cancer Society and the expertise of the American Heart Association. In short, NFID should be the place the public goes to for information on infectious diseases treatment and prevention. Cheers!

To help support the mission of NFID, please consider joining the 1973 Giving Society or making a gift online at www.nfid.org/donate.

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter), like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

• 2023 Impact Report
• 2024 NFID Awards Nominations
• 2024 Annual Conference on Vaccinology Research Call for Abstracts
• Clinical Vaccinology Course Online Enduring Activity
• NFID Resources (Videos, Webinars, Podcasts, Blogs)
• Partner Spotlight
• More …

Message From Headquarters

 

Imagine a future where no one dies from a vaccine-preventable disease. A future where vaccines do not go unused, antibiotics are not misused, and innovative therapies are accessible to all who need them. A world in which future generations benefit from the lessons learned from outbreaks and pandemics of the past. This is the vision that has been driving NFID for the past 50 years.

Marla Dalton, PE, CAE
NFID Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer

Celebrating 50 Years of Education, Prevention, and Impact: NFID was incorporated on August 23, 1973 as a non-profit corporation because a small group of visionaries believed a national organization was needed to raise awareness about the impact of infectious diseases. In honor of the 50th anniversary, NFID reposted this historical reflection featuring remarks from NFID co-founder Richard J. Duma, MD, PhD accepting the 2015 John P. Utz Leadership Award at the 2015 NFID Awards Gala.

Measles News Round-Up: Why Vaccination Matters: It has been 60 years since the first live virus measles vaccine was licensed for use in the US in 1963. Before a vaccine was available, nearly all US children were infected with measles at some point during childhood. Thanks to an effective vaccination program, measles was declared eliminated from the US in 2000, but cases and outbreaks still occur every year because measles is still commonly transmitted in many parts of the world. With cases reported in 2023 in Kentucky, Ohio, and other parts of the world, concern about measles prompted public health experts to urge parents to make sure their children are up to date on recommended measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccination.

The Triumph of Science: The Incredible Story of Smallpox Eradication: Few public health achievements can compare to the global eradication of smallpox. Smallpox was the first disease for which a vaccine was developed, and international collaboration on the strategic use of smallpox vaccine resulted in the global eradication of this feared infectious disease in 1980. Former Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director William H. Foege, MD, MPH, and NFID Past President Walter A. Orenstein, MD, reflect on their first-hand experiences with smallpox eradication in episodes of the NFID podcast, Infectious IDeas.

The Life-Saving Impact of Vaccines for Children: In this guest blog post, NFID Past President Walter A. Orenstein, MD, reflects on the 30th anniversary of the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program, which was established in 1993 during his term as director of the National Immunization Program. VFC benefitted not only children who were covered by the program, but also the country as a whole, since it led to higher levels of vaccination—ultimately resulting in the elimination of measles in the US by 2000. According to CDC estimates, vaccination of children born since the VFC program began (between 1994-2021) will help prevent 472 million illnesses, nearly 30 million hospitalizations, and more than 1 million deaths.

The History behind Universal Flu Vaccination: Each year in the US, millions of individuals get sick, hundreds of thousands are hospitalized, and tens of thousands die from flu and related complications. In this blog post, NFID leaders reflect on the anniversary of the 2010 CDC recommendation of universal influenza (flu) vaccination for everyone age 6 months and older. According to NFID spokesperson William Schaffner, MD, “The universal flu vaccination recommendation was a bold game-changer. It made the protection provided by flu vaccine available to essentially the entire US population, both children and adults—something that no other country had done. Although we have a universal recommendation, universal acceptance of annual influenza vaccination remains far from having been achieved. The challenges of vaccine hesitancy, skepticism, indifference, and opposition remain. The mission of NFID to educate, engage, and reassure remains vital and the need will continue.”

Building Momentum for the Future

Twelve years ago, I began volunteering with NFID and found like-minded passionate individuals and an opportunity to share my perspective as a nurse in this important work. When I say my life’s work as a nurse practitioner in infectious disease fits hand in glove with the mission of NFID to educate, communicate, and inform on how we protect public health, I mean it. I became involved because I didn’t want to see children die from preventable diseases and I remain involved as we work collaboratively towards our shared vision of healthier lives for all …

Patricia (Patsy) A. Stinchfield, RN, MS, CPNP
NFID President

The NFID 2023 Impact Report highlights NFID accomplishments over the past year. As the NFID 50th anniversary celebration concludes, we acknowledge that none of these successes would have been possible without the generous support of our donors and partners. The lessons learned and partnerships forged in our first 50 years position NFID for even greater success in the future. If you have not yet made a gift to NFID, please consider joining the 1973 Giving Society or making a year-end gift online at www.nfid.org/donate.

From all of us at NFID, thank you for your continued support! We wish you the gift of health this holiday season and throughout the coming year.

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter), like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

Arlington, VA, Bethesda, MD, Chicago, IL, and Dallas, TX (December 4, 2023)—During National Influenza Vaccination Week (December 4-8, 2023), leading public health organizations are encouraging everyone to get a flu vaccine if they have not already done so. The flu is more than an inconvenience—it can lead to hospitalization, worsening of chronic medical conditions, or even death. An annual flu vaccine is the best way to help prevent complications from flu.¹

The American Heart Association®, the American Lung Association®, the American Diabetes Association®, and the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases are teaming up to reach those who have not yet received a flu vaccine this season with an important message: It’s not too late to protect yourself and others by getting vaccinated against flu.

Even if you are not at higher risk for a serious case of flu, getting vaccinated helps protect those around you who are more vulnerable, including adults age 65 years and older and people with chronic health conditions including heart disease or stroke, diabetes, or lung disease. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in recent years, about 9 out of every 10 people who were in the hospital due to flu had at least 1 underlying medical condition.²

Although the best time to get vaccinated in the US is in the fall, before flu viruses begin spreading in your community,³ experts say those who have not yet gotten a flu vaccine should do so as soon as possible.

“Virtually everyone can benefit from a flu vaccine, and that’s especially true for people with chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes who have weakened immune systems and have worse flu if they get it,” said Eduardo Sanchez, MD, MPH, the American Heart Association’s chief medical officer for prevention. “Even if you feel well now or think you can fight off the flu if you get it, it is important to get vaccinated to protect the loved ones around you who may be at higher risk for dangerous complications.”

“Last fall, we saw cases of the flu increase earlier than typical years. Thankfully, flu vaccination provided substantial protection for people across the US,” said Albert Rizzo, MD, chief medical officer for the American Lung Association. “We know that getting a flu vaccine is the best way to help protect yourself, your family, and your community against flu and severe illness from the flu. And this protection is especially important for certain people at increased risk for developing serious complications such as those living with chronic medical conditions including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other chronic lung diseases.”

If you are over 65, you should ask about getting one of the 3 flu vaccines that are specifically recommended for your age, because studies have shown they trigger a better immune response in older adults than standard flu vaccines. However, if one of the specific vaccines is not available, you should still get whatever vaccine is available, as they all provide some protection and can lessen complications from flu. Additionally, it is safe to get a flu vaccine at the same time as an updated COVID-19 vaccine.

“In recent years, almost a third of the people hospitalized due to the flu had diabetes,”⁴ said Robert Gabbay, MD, PhD, the ADA’s chief scientific and medical officer. “The threat of flu and COVID-19 is particularly high for someone with diabetes, especially considering many people who live with diabetes have other complications like heart disease and kidney disease.” Staying up to date on all recommended vaccines is important for everyone, especially those living with diabetes and other chronic illness.

According to a National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) survey, more than 1 in 4 US adults (28%) who are at higher risk for flu-related complications, including older adults and people with chronic health conditions, said they were not planning to get vaccinated this season. “This is concerning because this season is likely to be more complex, as in addition to flu and COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is also circulating,” said NFID Medical Director Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD. “Fortunately, we now have vaccines to help protect against all 3 of these viruses. Getting vaccinated is critical to help protect yourself, your family, and your community from serious disease and potential complications.”

The American Heart Association, the American Lung Association, the American Diabetes Association and the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases all offer educational resources on their websites about the burden of flu and the importance of vaccination for people with chronic health conditions.

View in Spanish

About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID)

Founded in 1973, NFID is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. NFID has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum transparency seal from Candid/GuideStar. NFID promotes a Take 3 approach to help prevent respiratory illnesses: 1) Get vaccinated; 2) Practice healthy habits to help stop the spread of infectious diseases (wash hands often, stay home when sick, cover coughs and sneezes, and consider wearing a mask if you or a household member are at increased risk of severe illness); 3) Treat with prescription medication if recommended by a healthcare professional. For more information, visit www.nfid.org.

About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health, and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

About the American Lung Association

The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy, and research. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on 4 strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to champion clean air for all; to improve the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families; and to create a tobacco-free future. For more information about the American Lung Association, which has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and is a Platinum-Level GuideStar Member, or to support the work it does, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org.

About the American Diabetes Association

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) is the nation’s leading voluntary health organization fighting to bend the curve on the diabetes epidemic and help people living with diabetes thrive. For 83 years, the ADA has driven discovery and research to treat, manage, and prevent diabetes while working relentlessly for a cure. Through advocacy, program development, and education we aim to improve the quality of life for the over 133 million Americans living with diabetes or prediabetes. Diabetes has brought us together. What we do next will make us Connected for Life®. To learn more or to get involved, visit us at diabetes.org or call 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383). Join the fight with us on Facebook (American Diabetes Association), Spanish Facebook (Asociación Americana de la Diabetes), LinkedIn (American Diabetes Association), Twitter (@AmDiabetesAssn), and Instagram (@AmDiabetesAssn).

Contact: Diana Olson (NFID), dolson@nfid.org

View in Spanish

¹ CDC Seasonal Influenza (Flu) Vaccination and Preventable Disease webpage, accessed November 8, 2023, https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/flu/index.html

² Xu X, Blanton L, Elal AIA, et al. Update: Influenza Activity in the United States during the 2018-2019 Season and Composition of the 2019-2020 Influenza Vaccine. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2019;68(24):544-551. doi:10.15585/mmwr.mm6824a3.

³ CDC Flu Season webpage, accessed November 8, 2023, https://www.cdc.gov/flu/season/index.html

⁴ CDC, A Chronic Health Condition Can Increase Your Risk, accessed January 25, 2023, https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/chronic-conditions/index.htm

If you have been putting off getting your annual flu vaccine, now is the time to take action and get vaccinated. Flu can be serious and deadly, and flu vaccination is the best way to help protect yourself and those around you.

Just ask Jeb S. Teichman, MD. Getting vaccinated against flu was on his son Brent’s to-do list, but life got busy and he did not prioritize it. Brent was a vibrant and healthy 29-year-old chef when he died as a result of flu-related complications in 2019. Since then, Brent’s family has bravely shared his story to educate others about how serious flu can be.

Flu activity is increasing across most of the US, and according to CDC, the number of weekly flu hospital admissions continues to increase. During the 2023-2024 season (as of December 1, 2023), at least 1.8 million people have gotten sick with flu, 17,000 have been hospitalized, and 1,100 people have died from flu, including 8 pediatric deaths.

CDC recommends that everyone age 6 months or older get an annual flu vaccine. Vaccination is especially important for those at higher risk for serious flu-related illness, including:

• Infants and children age 5 years and younger
• Adults age 65 years and older
• Pregnant women
• Those with certain chronic health conditions, including heart disease, lung disease, kidney disease, and diabetes (even when the condition is well managed)
• Certain racial and ethnic groups

Even in cases when flu vaccination does not prevent infection completely, it can help protect against serious flu-related complications, including hospitalization and death—taking flu from wild to mild. A recent study found that flu vaccination reduced the risk of flu-related emergency visits and hospitalizations by almost half among children and teens during the 2022-2023 season. During the 2021-2022 flu season, CDC estimates flu vaccination prevented approximately 9 million flu illnesses, 100,000 hospitalizations, and 5,000 deaths.

Unfortunately, flu vaccination rates have remained low since the COVID-19 pandemic, especially among certain higher risk groups, such as pregnant women and children. The trend appears to be continuing this season, with lower flu vaccination coverage for both children and adults compared to the same time last year, leaving many people unnecessarily vulnerable.

With CDC advising that flu activity could continue for weeks, now is still a good time to get vaccinated against flu to help protect individuals, families, and communities.

Flu vaccines may be given at the same time as other recommended vaccines, including vaccines for COVID-19, pneumococcal disease, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Help #FightFlu:

NFID and CDC encourage everyone to help protect themselves and their loved ones by getting an annual flu vaccine. Take these steps to help #FightFlu:

• Use the CDC NIVW Digital Media Toolkit to encourage flu vaccination within your community
• Join the NFID Leading by Example initiative to make a public commitment to flu prevention
• Share flu vaccination photos/videos, with an NFID #FightFlu paddle, on social media—be sure to include #FightFlu and tag @NFIDvaccines 
• Share NFID flu resources throughout the 2023-2024 season to help educate and engage the public and healthcare professionals about the importance of flu prevention and treatment
• Use the Flu Vaccine Finder tool to find a flu vaccine near you

 To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter) using the hashtags #FightFlu and #NIVW, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Humanitarian Award

For many families, a large gathering around a table filled with turkey, potatoes, and a can-shaped slab of cranberries is the pinnacle of autumn joy. Aunt Susan asks you to pass the gravy, Cousin Greg compliments the turkey, and Uncle Harold tells you he doesn’t know why you went out to get a flu vaccine because those things are hoaxes.

Now what? You may be tempted to let his comment go and change the subject. If you are certain that everyone around the table knows not to listen to Uncle Harold, that is a reasonable course of action. But in larger gatherings, people rarely agree so universally with one another.

Dealing with Vaccine Misinformation

The trouble with letting Harold be Harold is that even off-handed remarks can create doubt that is difficult to undo when those doubts are given time to fester. The time to deal with vaccine misinformation is immediately. And the way to deal with it is through building connections and expressing empathy.

That’s not the way it usually goes. We usually deal with the Harolds of our lives by using sarcasm or being dismissive. I mean, sure Harold. Flu shots aren’t real, we never went to the moon, and Paul McCartney died and was replaced by a fake Paul. Sure. But the others in the room who may be at least curious about this vaccine claim, hear only condescension. No one is swayed by sarcasm.

In a clinical setting, when healthcare professionals are faced with a vaccine-hesitant patient, they can employ motivational interviewing techniques. Motivational interviewing is a team effort to help the patient make positive changes in their life. It is a type of conversation where both the patient and the healthcare professional work together to boost the patient’s motivation and commitment to reconsider immunization. According to Professor Julie Leask from University of Sydney, the conversation begins with eliciting concerns, moves to summarizing those concerns and setting an agenda for the conversation, and then goes on to evoking and reinforcing change. Before giving recommendations, the healthcare professional gets the patient’s permission, offers information, and asks about their response to the information and recommendation.

4 Ways to Build Trust

But the family dinner table is a different place from the clinic, and we are guided primarily by our desire to prevent the holiday from devolving into a shouting match and to maintain our relationships with our family. Voices for Vaccines has built a method as a way for non-healthcare professionals to use the basics of motivational interviewing to have constructive conversations about vaccines that are honest and won’t ruin dinner.

The 4-A method is summarized as:

• Ask: Elicit more information about the main concern
• Acknowledge: Build connections to the person by acknowledging what you have in common, what you agree about, or where they are correct
• Affirm: Asking questions and seeking information is reasonable, and many people have these same doubts
• Answer: Get permission to provide your perspective about the concern or facts about the vaccine

Instead of brushing Harold’s concerns off with a derisive snort or with sarcasm, we can enter into a conversation with him by using our own curiosity and asking him to tell us more. Why does he think flu vaccines are a hoax? What are his experiences that lead him to believe that? Rather than swooping in to provide the answers reflexively, we build trust with Harold by listening to learn more about his thought process, rather than listening to respond to what he is getting wrong.

In fact, we work hard to respond to what he gets right. Acknowledging our points of agreement or even our commonalities goes a long way in building trust. It is also a platform on which we can build a change in behaviors or beliefs. Can we get Harold to agree that perhaps vaccines do some specific good?

We can also affirm that his beliefs are not uncommon. Maybe we have heard these concerns before from others, or maybe hearing them now, we understand that it would be difficult to agree to vaccinate under these circumstances. Our empathy not only helps build trust with Harold, but also shows us to be the kind of person anyone at the table can come to with questions and concerns. Isn’t it better that they come to us than Uncle Harold or the guy from their high school gym class?

Now we tell Uncle Harold all about how flu vaccines are not a hoax, right? Wrong. Answering is a process that begins with getting permission from Harold by saying something like, “Would you be interested in my thoughts about why flu vaccines are important?” Most people will say yes, and then we can offer facts, thoughts, experiences, stories, and whatever we have that makes our case. Offering rather than forcing better information about vaccines respects the other person’s free will and right to think as they wish. And it also puts good information out to the rest of the table.

When we sit at holiday tables with the Harolds in our lives, we may feel a need to make sure the facts are corrected. The 4-A process puts the facts last for a simple reason: You cannot get a loved one to listen to you when you put facts ahead of your relationship with them.

“Fostering a respectful relationship is the most important tool we have to change vaccine beliefs and intentions.”

Share the #GiftOfHealth

Share these infectious disease memes to help spread awareness, not disease this holiday season. Tag your friends and family to remind them to #GetVaccinated to help stay healthy!

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID and Voices for Vaccines on X (Twitter), like NFID on Facebook, follow NFID on Instagram, visit NFID on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

Despite those sobering statistics, a recent national survey of US adults conducted by the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) found that only 22% are concerned about themselves or someone in their family getting infected with pneumonia. Among those who are at higher risk for pneumococcal disease, including older adults and those with asthma or other lung conditions, only about 40% have been advised to get a pneumococcal pneumonia vaccine.

In support of World Pneumonia Day on November 12, NFID and the American Lung Association are working to raise awareness about pneumococcal disease and encourage those who are at risk to talk with a healthcare professional about pneumococcal vaccination.

Here are 3 things to know on World Pneumonia Day:

• Anyone can get pneumonia, but some people are at higher risk. Those who can get very sick with pneumonia include young children, older adults, and people with certain chronic health conditions, including lung disease, heart disease, kidney or liver disease, diabetes, sickle cell disease, or illnesses that weaken the immune system, such as HIV and certain cancers.
• Pneumonia can be serious. Symptoms of pneumonia include fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, or a general feeling of weakness. Complications from pneumonia can include respiratory failure, sepsis, and even death. The death rate is higher among adults age 65 years and older. Early diagnosis and treatment are important for serious pneumococcal infections.
• Vaccines can help prevent pneumonia and protect against pneumococcal disease. Pneumococcal vaccination is recommended for young children, older adults, and those with certain chronic health conditions or other risk factors.

“Pneumonia is serious and can be deadly. When you get your annual flu vaccine or updated COVID-19 vaccine, be sure to ask about pneumococcal vaccines,” said NFID Medical Director Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD. “Vaccines can help prevent serious diseases and by getting vaccinated as recommended, we can protect ourselves, our families, and our communities.”

“Even healthy adults over 65 years are at increased risk for pneumococcal pneumonia, because the body’s immune system naturally weakens with age. In addition, unlike seasonal respiratory infections like influenza, pneumococcal pneumonia can happen any time of the year, so it is important for those at greater risk to be protected,” said Albert Rizzo, MD, chief medical officer for the American Lung Association. “Fortunately, pneumococcal pneumonia vaccines are available to help prevent the disease.”

For details on who should receive pneumococcal vaccines and when, view the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations.

About Pneumococcal Disease

Pneumococcal disease is caused by bacteria (Streptococcus pneumoniae) that can attack different parts of the body. When these bacteria invade the lungs, they can cause pneumonia; when they invade the bloodstream, they can cause sepsis; and when they invade the lining of the brain, they can cause meningitis. These serious conditions often require hospitalization and can lead to death.

About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases

Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. NFID has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum transparency seal from Candid/GuideStar. For more information, visit www.nfid.org/pneumococcal. #PreventPneumo

About the American Lung Association

 The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy and research. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on 4 strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to champion clean air for all; to improve the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families; and to create a tobacco-free future. For more information about the American Lung Association, which has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and is a Platinum-Level GuideStar Member, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org. To support the work of the American Lung Association, find a local event at Lung.org/events.

Contact: Diana Olson (NFID), dolson@nfid.org

What Is C. diff?

Clostridioides difficile [klos–TRID–e–OY-dees dif–uh–SEEL], or C. diff for short, is a germ that causes diarrhea and colitis (inflammation of the colon) in infected people. Once known as a nuisance disease of older adults, cases are now commonly found in children and younger adults. Over the past 10 years, new treatments, diagnostics, and preventive measures have changed the landscape of C. diff infections, but they still remain an urgent public health threat.

According to a recent report on the overall burden of CDI in the United States, there are an estimated 500,000 C. diff infections annually, 30,000 of which are fatal. This results in an annual $5 billion cost to the economy, with patients reporting spending an average of $4,355 in out-of-pocket costs on treatment.

C. diff is a horrendous disease, as anyone who has ever had it will tell you. Its primary symptom, profuse diarrhea, can be embarrassing and incredibly isolating. Aside from worrying about getting their loved ones sick or spreading the disease to strangers, patients often refrain from going out in public to avoid being stranded without a bathroom when they need it.

There can be profound social and emotional impacts on people who suffer from a single bout of C. diff—not to mention the impact on the nearly 35% of patients who experience a recurrence. While there are legions of compassionate, qualified healthcare professionals who do what they can to provide patients with the best possible care, there are still patients who do not feel they were correctly diagnosed, treated, or educated by their clinicians when they had C. diff. Diagnostics can fail, treatments can be inaccessible due to supply or cost (or be wholly ineffective), and patients can be afflicted by the disease much longer than they ever expected. For some, this can lead to distrust of the healthcare system.

What Has Changed?

C. diff was primarily considered a hospital-associated infection, but there has been a shift in thinking about the primary origin of C. diff infections. It is difficult to determine how many cases that are diagnosed in the community are truly community-acquired, versus developing in the community but originating due to exposure in a hospital or other healthcare environment. For all the valiant efforts to practice better infection prevention in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities, the danger of C. diff infections at-large remains.

Moreover, community-associated infections are not subject to the same reporting requirements as hospital-associated infections (healthcare facilities that participate in Medicare are required to report cases of C. diff), making it even harder to get an accurate count of infections across the US. Additionally, there have been marked increases in C. diff prevalence in the past 10 years for specific populations like pregnant women and children.

On a more positive note, in 2023, 2 microbiome therapeutics were approved for treatment of patients with recurrent C. diff infection. In addition to existing treatment options, these new drugs present promising developments in alleviating the burden of recurrent infections, a major concern for patients and healthcare professionals.

What Can Patients and Healthcare Professionals Do To Prevent C. diff?

There are steps that everyone can take to help prevent C. diff:

• Practice good hand hygiene, especially before and after using the bathroom or preparing food
• Only take or prescribe antibiotics when absolutely necessary. In addition to contributing to the rising threat of antibiotic resistance, overuse of antibiotics puts individuals 7-10 times more at risk for contracting C. diff.
• Individuals who think they may have C. diff can get tested
• Individuals who test positive for the bacteria should clean using bleach products, which are the only disinfectants that can kill C. diff spores (the dormant form of the bacteria that lives outside the gut)

One of the most important things we can do to improve outcomes for C. diff patients is to raise awareness. Too often, we hear from patients who were unaware of the disease before they were diagnosed. To help address this issue, PLF launched an annual awareness campaign in 2019, See C. diff, which has reached tens of millions of people in the US. Read more stories about patients affected by C. diff.

Help raise awareness by joining the See C. diff campaign. Working together, we can all help combat this dangerous and all too often deadly infection.

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID (@NFIDVaccines) and Peggy Lillis Foundation (@PeggyFund) on X (Twitter), like NFID on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

Special thanks to National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) Medical Director Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD, for this guest blog post on communication tactics and other strategies to help overcome barriers to vaccination. Hopkins will be presenting at the NFID 2023 Clinical Vaccinology Course on routine adult vaccine recommendations.

Q: What are some of the most common barriers to immunization in the US?

A: As someone who sees adult and pediatric patients in clinical practice, I think of vaccination barriers in terms of 5 Cs:

1. Convenience: How easy and convenient is it to get vaccinated?
2. Cost: Is it affordable?
3. Confidence: How knowledgeable is the patient about the vaccine? Is there demand? Is there fear? Are there trust issues?
4. Community: Many people act based on community norms. The community may be family, the neighborhood in which a patient lives, or the social media environment in which the patient is active. What are the norms within those groups?
5. Closure: Closure is getting the patient vaccinated, because talking about vaccination without actually vaccinating does not protect the patient.

Q: Are there different considerations when dealing with children versus adult patients? 

A: The same 5 Cs are important in both childhood and adult vaccination, but some themes may be more powerful than others based on differences in setting, what is going on in the life of the patient, and the dynamics of the interaction between the patient and healthcare professional. Healthcare professionals are among the most trusted messengers for information about vaccines and open conversations are critical to getting patients vaccinated.

Q: What tactics and strategies can be used to help overcome vaccination barriers?

A: Anything that we accomplish in a therapeutic relationship has to start with building trust between the patient and the care team, not just with the individual provider. The person at the front desk may be a member of the patient’s community, in which case, that is where the relationship begins. In any practice setting, all members of the team need to be on the same page for preventive services, whether that is vaccination, cancer screening, or screening for diabetes or heart disease.

When you start with a team on the same page, the standard check-in routine can and should include a reminder—for example, You are due for an influenza (flu) vaccine today. That sets the expectation. When the nurse or physician assistant takes the patient to the exam room, it continues–Would you like me to give you the flu vaccine now? If the patient raises a question or concern, that will trigger a specific provider-patient conversation to, hopefully, get the patient vaccinated while in the office.

Even some long-standing patients may have questions. It is important to probe gently and respectfully to understand the individual’s questions and concerns. If a patient raises a concern about a vaccine based on misinformation, rather than contradicting (which is the natural inclination), try to address a shared value: I appreciate your concern but I have not seen any evidence supporting that. Our shared goal is to keep you healthy and I want you to have the same protection from vaccines that I have given to my own family. If I give you the vaccine today, you are less likely to get sick and not be able to take care of your family. Can we immunize you today to help keep you healthy for your children?

If the patient still decides not to get vaccinated, respect the decision, but make a note to revisit the decision during the next visit. It is critically important to follow up on that conversation—if the follow-up does not happen, essentially, we have failed twice to vaccinate and protect the patient.

Q. Are there strategies that healthcare professionals can use to overcome barriers beyond confidence and community?

A: We have done much over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic to address convenience, cost, and closure. We have brought vaccines to where people are, we have tried to make it convenient and easy to get vaccinated, and we have addressed the cost barrier. But we still have missed opportunities. We need to learn from these lessons moving forward. Even with staff shortages, we still need to be open to having patients come in for drop-in vaccinations, offering after-hours vaccine clinics, working with employers to offer vaccines at work, and/or going to schools and fairgrounds. We can also advocate for the Vaccines for Adults Program, a proposal that is modeled after the Vaccines for Children Program, to provide free or low-cost vaccines to uninsured adults.

It is important to have a shared knowledge base and continue to grow our team of vaccine experts—by sharing knowledge, we can better address concerns and build vaccine confidence at the individual patient level, whether the vaccine is for flu, hepatitis B, shingles, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), or another preventable disease.

The more we can strengthen our community of vaccine experts, the more likely we are to get vaccines into arms.

Learn More at the 2023 Clinical Vaccinology Course

Interested in learning more about recommendations and practical strategies for ensuring timely and appropriate immunization across the lifespan? Register for the online NFID 2023 Clinical Vaccinology Course (CVC) on November 15-17, 2023. Expert speakers will address new developments and issues related to the use of vaccines, including the latest US immunization recommendations, as well as best practices to help improve vaccination rates.

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID and Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD on X (Twitter), like NFID on Facebook, follow NFID on Instagram, visit NFID on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

The fall and winter virus season is upon us. In some parts of the southeastern US, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity is increasing, which typically signals the beginning of RSV season nationwide. Influenza (flu) season is expected to start in the coming weeks, and COVID-19 hospitalizations edged up for most of late summer, while hundreds of people in the US are still dying from COVID-19 each week.

No one knows what is in store for the upcoming fall and winter virus season. But on the heels of an unusually busy 2022-2023 virus season, where the simultaneous circulation of flu, COVID-19, and RSV took a toll on our already burdened healthcare system, we must do everything possible to protect the US population against the most serious effects of these respiratory diseases.

This is a top priority for CDC, and there is good news. With powerful new and updated preventive tools available, we are in the strongest position yet to fight these 3 illnesses.

We now have vaccines to protect against all 3 of these respiratory viruses—influenza, SARS-CoV-2, and RSV. We also have widely available, effective treatments for flu and COVID-19, and rapid antigen tests that can quickly detect viruses so there are no delays in getting treatment or taking steps to help protect family, friends, and co-workers.

Here is a look at each of these respiratory diseases and the tools available to reduce the risk they pose this fall and winter:

RSV

RSV takes the heaviest toll on the youngest and oldest among us. RSV is the leading cause of hospitalization in US infants, causing an estimated 58,000-80,000 hospitalizations and 100-300 deaths among children younger than age 5 years annually. Among adults age 65 years and older in the US, RSV hospitalizes an estimated 60,000-160,000 people and causes 6,000-10,000 deaths each year.

2023 has been a year of breakthroughs in efforts to prevent severe RSV, and for the first time ever, we have immunizations in the form of vaccines to help protect older adults and monoclonal antibodies to protect infants and young children from severe RSV. In addition, we have a new RSV vaccine recommended for use in pregnant women to protect their babies from severe RSV after birth. To help protect vulnerable populations, CDC recommends:

• One dose of nirsevimab, a long-acting monoclonal antibody, for all infants younger than age 8 months born during–or entering–their first RSV season (typically October through March). For a small group of children between ages 8-19 months who are at increased risk of severe RSV disease, such as children who are severely immunocompromised, a dose is also recommended entering their second season.
• A single dose of RSV vaccine for pregnant women, given during weeks 32-36 of pregnancy, using seasonal administration, which means getting the vaccine between September and January in most of the US. Most infants will likely only need protection from either the maternal RSV vaccine or the RSV antibody for babies (not both).
• A single dose of RSV vaccine for adults age 60 years and older using shared clinical decision-making. This means adults in this age group should talk with a healthcare professional about whether the RSV vaccine is right for them. Considerations might include whether the patient has chronic medical conditions or other risk factors that increase their risk of severe RSV disease, and the patient’s own preference around getting vaccinated.

Flu

The best way to help prevent flu and protect against serious related complications is by getting a flu vaccine each year. Vaccination is particularly important for those who are at higher risk of serious complications.

During the 2022-2023 season, fewer than half of US adults and about 3 in 5 children received a flu vaccine, according to CDC estimates. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, we have observed worrisome drops in flu vaccination uptake among pregnant women, children, and healthcare professionals, and there are significant disparities in vaccination rates along race and ethnicity and among children living in rural versus urban areas. Work remains to be done to increase vaccine coverage and health equity.

COVID-19

CDC recommends an updated COVID-19 vaccine for everyone age 6 months and older. This vaccine will provide better protection against circulating variants and can reduce the chance of having long COVID. Immunity wanes over time and the COVID-19 virus continues to change—so keeping up to date with vaccination is the best way to help protect yourself and your loved ones against the most severe effects of COVID-19 this fall and winter.

Although we are in a better place now than we were earlier in the pandemic, thousands of people in the US are still hospitalized due to COVID-19 each week. Children and adults without any underlying conditions also still experience severe illness due to COVID-19. We must not forget that COVID-19 remains a threat.

In the US, most people can still get a COVID-19 vaccine for free, either through health insurance, or for those who are uninsured or underinsured, through the CDC Bridge Access Program or the Vaccines for Children program.

We have more tools to help prevent disease than ever before during this fall and winter virus season

CDC encourages everyone to take advantage of these safe and effective immunizations (and yes, getting these vaccines at the same time is acceptable), proven treatments, and common-sense precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones against these common respiratory illnesses.

Spread the Word To Help #FightFlu, #PreventRSV, and #StopTheSpread

The recent NFID flu vaccine clinic served as an opportunity for partners to join NFID in Leading By Example, to help raise awareness about the importance of annual flu vaccination. This year, NFID staff was joined by many partners including the Adult Vaccine Access Coalition, Association of Immunization Managers, Association of Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC), Families Fighting Flu, National Association of School Nurses, National Council of Negro Women-Good Health WINs, Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America, and the Greater Bethesda Chamber of Commerce.

Show your support for vaccination and disease prevention:

• Join the NFID Leading By Example initiative to make a public commitment to disease prevention
• Download NFID paddles to share why you #GetVaccinated and share vaccination photos on social media using #FightFlu, #PreventRSV, and #StopTheSpread, tagging @NFIDvaccines
• Watch the video of the 2023 NFID Annual News Conference: Preventing Disease This Fall and Winter to learn more

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter), using the hashtag #LeadingByExample, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

NFID President Patricia (Patsy) A. Stinchfield, RN, MS, CPNP, moderated the panel discussion with experts including CDC Director Mandy K. Cohen, MD, MPH; Keith C. Ferdinand, MD, professor of medicine in cardiology at Tulane University School of Medicine; NFID Medical Director Robert (Bob) H. Hopkins, Jr., MD; and William Schaffner, MD, NFID spokesperson; with CDC Influenza Division Director Vivien G. Dugan, PhD available as an additional expert. Cohen provided final CDC disease burden data and flu vaccination rates for the 2022-2023 season.

According to CDC data released at the news conference, the 2022-2023 season in the US was moderately severe with an estimated 31 million symptomatic illnesses, 14 million medical visits, 360,000 hospitalizations, and 21,000 flu-related deaths, including 176 pediatric deaths.

Highlights of the extensive national media coverage:

People Are Urged To Get Vaccinated against 3 Major Respiratory Viruses: As winter approaches, public health authorities are worried that too few US adults are planning to get vaccinated against 3 major respiratory viruses, according to a new survey released by NFID. The survey of 1,000 US adults found only about half of those age 18-64 years want a flu vaccine, only 40% of adults are planning to get an updated COVID-19 vaccine, and only 40% of eligible adults say they will get an RSV vaccine. Source: NPR Morning Edition

CDC Director Urges Flu, COVID-19 Vaccination amid Low Uptake: Vaccination rates for COVID-19 and flu have declined, and a significant portion of the US population indicated they are not interested in getting either this year, according to a new NFID survey. The survey found that only about 20% of US adults are worried about themselves or someone in their family getting infected with flu, COVID-19, or RSV … When asked about their reasons for not getting vaccinated, survey respondents cited concerns about side effects, distrust of vaccines, and the belief that vaccines do not work well. Source: The Hill

US Adults More Likely To Get Vaccinated for Flu vs COVID-19 This Fall:  “The NFID data—which show complacency around vaccination against flu, COVID-19, RSV, and pneumococcal disease—are concerning,” NFID President Patricia Stinchfield, RN, MD, CPNP said. “These diseases can be serious, even in healthy children and adults, but the good news is that we now have prevention tools available to help protect people against severe illness and complications. We just need to use them.” Source: Becker’s Hospital Review

What To Know As Fall Vaccinations against COVID-19, Flu, and RSV Get Underway:  For the first time, the US has vaccines to fight a trio of viruses that cause fall and winter misery. But health officials worry that shot fatigue and hassles in getting them will leave too many people needlessly unprotected. “These vaccines may not be perfect in being able to prevent absolutely every infection with these illnesses, but they turn a wild infection into a milder one,” said William Schaffner, MD, of NFID. “We need to use them,” CDC Director Mandy K. Cohen, MD, MPH, said. “Right now is the right time,” she said. Source: Associated Press

People Are Sick of Vaccination amid Flu Season, COVID-19 Boosters: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of complacency … To conquer vaccine hesitancy, Keith C. Ferdinand, MD, professor of medicine in cardiology at Tulane University School of Medicine, emphasized meeting the public where they are. “We need to go into the community, to faith-based centers, wherever people are,” Ferdinand said, noting that many people do not even have a primary care physician. “We waste lives with these preventable deaths,” Ferdinand added. “It’s also a moral issue.” Source: New York Post

Flu, COVID-19 Vaccination Rates Decline, as US Health Officials Make New Push for Inoculations: Rebuilding confidence in vaccines is critical, said NFID Medical Director Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD. “We’ve got tools that we can use to help protect families, help individuals to be protected. But if we don’t rebuild vaccine confidence, as we start this flu season we’re really missing an opportunity to save lives, to save productive work time, to save time for people to spend with other members of their family,” Hopkins said. Source: STAT

Health Officials Urge Pregnant Women To Get Vaccinated against Flu, COVID-19, and RSV: “We know that only about 47% of pregnant women received a flu vaccine during the 2022-2023 season,” stated NFID Medical Director Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD. “That wasn’t a big change from the previous season during the pandemic, but that’s down over 10% from the rates of pregnant women who were vaccinated against flu prior to the pandemic. Only 27% of women received a COVID-19 bivalent booster before or during their pregnancy last year,” Hopkins said. “It’s concerning,” he noted. Source: Motherly

Mapped: COVID-19 Hospitalizations Drop, Deaths Increase: Nationwide COVID-19 hospitalizations dropped roughly 3% for the week ending September 23, 2023, but COVID-19 deaths rose 8%, according to CDC. And as we move into the fall and winter, a new NFID survey found adults are more likely to get vaccinated against the flu than COVID-19 this season. “As healthcare professionals, we need to address unfounded concerns and create realistic expectations about what vaccines can and cannot do,” Stinchfield said. “Even in cases when vaccination does not prevent infection entirely, getting vaccinated can help protect against serious complications, including hospitalization and death.” Source: Advisory Board

Social media highlights:

To join the conversation and get the latest NFID updates, follow NFID on X (Twitter) using the hashtags #GetVaccinated #FightFlu and #StopTheSpread, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

• NFID National Survey: Attitudes about Respiratory Diseases
• 2023 Annual News Conference
• Online Clinical Vaccinology Course
• 50th Anniversary Gala Recap
• NFID Resources (Videos, Webinars, Podcasts, Blogs)
• More …

Message From Headquarters

View News Conference Recording

New NFID survey shows many US adults underestimate the seriousness of respiratory diseases and do not plan to get vaccinated this season

CDC Director Mandy K. Cohen, MD, MPH, to present final 2022-2023 US season coverage data showing fewer than half of US adults were vaccinated against flu, and fewer than 1 in 5 received bivalent COVID-19 vaccines

Bethesda, MD (September 28, 2023)—As the US braces for the upcoming fall and winter virus season, new survey data released today by the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) show that despite the potential severity, only 22% of US adults are worried about themselves or someone in their family getting infected with influenza (flu), with similar low levels of concern about COVID-19 (23%) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) (19%) infection. The data also show that although nearly two-thirds of US adults (65%) agree that vaccination is the best preventive measure against flu-related hospitalizations and deaths, 43% of US adults do not plan to or are unsure if they will get vaccinated against flu. Although updated COVID-19 vaccines are recommended, only 40% plan to get vaccinated against COVID-19, and among adults age 60 years and older, only 40% plan to get vaccinated against RSV.

At a news conference today, health experts from NFID and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urged everyone age 6 months and older to get vaccinated against flu and COVID-19 this season. Experts also urged those most at risk for severe disease to discuss new RSV prevention tools (including vaccines and monoclonal antibodies), as well as pneumococcal vaccination, with a healthcare professional.

“For the first time, we have immunizations available to help protect against the 3 major respiratory viruses—COVID-19, flu, and RSV,” said CDC Director Mandy K. Cohen, MD, MPH. “I strongly encourage you and your family to get the immunizations that are right for you. We must use all available tools to protect those most at risk, including infants and young children, pregnant people, older adults, and those with chronic health conditions.”

Although flu and COVID-19 vaccines may be coadministered, the NFID survey data show only 38% of respondents indicated that they would get both vaccines at the same time, if offered to them.

“The NFID data—which show complacency around vaccination against flu, COVID-19, RSV, and pneumococcal disease—are concerning,” said NFID President Patricia (Patsy) A. Stinchfield, RN, MS, CPNP. “These diseases can be serious, even in healthy children and adults, but the good news is that we now have prevention tools available to help protect people against severe illness and complications. We just need to use them.” According to CDC data released today, the 2022-2023 season in the US was moderately severe with an estimated 31 million symptomatic illnesses, 14 million medical visits, 360,000 hospitalizations, and 21,000 flu-related deaths, including 176 pediatric deaths.

When asked about their reasons for not getting vaccinated, survey respondents cited concerns about side effects, distrust of vaccines, and the belief that vaccines do not work well. “As healthcare professionals, we need to address these unfounded concerns and create realistic expectations about what vaccines can and cannot do,” Stinchfield said. “Even in cases when vaccination does not prevent infection entirely, getting vaccinated can help protect against serious complications, including hospitalization and death.”

Speaking at the news conference alongside Cohen and Stinchfield were Keith C. Ferdinand, MD, professor of medicine in cardiology at Tulane University School of Medicine; NFID Medical Director Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD; William Schaffner, MD, NFID spokesperson; and CDC Influenza Division Director Vivien G. Dugan, PhD.

CDC estimates that only 47% of US adults received a flu vaccine during the 2022-2023 respiratory season, down from 49% in 2021-2022. As in previous years, older adults were more likely than younger adults to receive a flu vaccine: 35% of adults age 18-49 years received a flu vaccine, 50% of adults age 50-64 years, and 70% of adults age 65 years and older.

Although uptake of COVID-19 vaccines was initially high, staying up to date with vaccine recommendations has been more challenging—only about 20% of US adults were vaccinated with the bivalent COVID-19 vaccine given from 2022-2023. Of concern, more than half (57%) of US adults age 65 years and older did not get the bivalent vaccine, leaving them at increased risk for severe COVID-19 outcomes including hospitalization and death.

Additionally, 97% of US adults who were hospitalized with flu-related complications in 2022-2023 had at least 1 underlying medical condition, yet only 58% of adults with at least 1 chronic health condition were vaccinated against flu. “As a cardiologist, I want my patients to understand that having a chronic health condition puts them at higher risk of developing serious complications from both flu and COVID-19,” said Ferdinand. “That’s true for people with heart disease, lung disease, kidney disease, and diabetes, as well as other conditions that can weaken the immune system.”

Among children age 6 months to 17 years, flu vaccination coverage was 57% for the 2022-2023 season, consistent with the 2021-2022 season, but lower than prior to the pandemic. During the 2022-2023 flu season, flu vaccination coverage among pregnant women was 47% but significantly lower than prior to the pandemic (58%), and only 27% of women reported receiving a COVID-19 bivalent booster vaccine before or during pregnancy.

“The low rates of flu and COVID-19 vaccination among pregnant women are concerning,” said Hopkins. “Pregnant women and young children are at higher risk of hospitalization and serious related complications from both COVID-19 and flu. Flu and COVID-19 vaccination is safe during pregnancy and helps protect not only pregnant mothers but also their developing babies and newborns. Now, we can also protect infants from severe RSV illness in 2 ways—through an RSV antibody given to infants younger than age 8 months, or an RSV vaccine given to women during pregnancy.”

Disparities in vaccination coverage exist for both flu and COVID-19. CDC estimates flu vaccination coverage among all individuals age 6 months and older during the 2022-2023 season varied by race and ethnicity to include 52% among White, 45% among Black, and 44% among Hispanic populations. “Ongoing differences in vaccine uptake exacerbate the healthcare disparities that exist,” said Ferdinand. “We need greater education and awareness about the importance of vaccination, but it is also critical that we address the underlying issues that prevent people from accessing vaccines and create tailored approaches to meet people where they are.”

The NFID survey found that only 40% of US adults at higher risk for pneumococcal disease, including those age 65 years and older and those with certain chronic health conditions, had been advised by a healthcare professional to get a pneumococcal vaccine. Among those who have been advised to get vaccinated, the majority (79%) have received a pneumococcal vaccine. “This really underscores the importance of a strong vaccine recommendation from a healthcare professional,” said Schaffner. “Flu season is a great time to ask about pneumococcal vaccination because pneumococcal disease can be a serious complication of flu.”

According to the NFID survey, the majority (75%) of US adults trust healthcare professionals most for information about flu vaccines, demonstrating how important it is that healthcare professionals talk with patients about recommended vaccinations.

In response to additional survey questions regarding testing and treatment for flu, COVID-19, and RSV, as well as the use of masks:

• 2 in 3 US adults (66%) said they would use an at-home test, if available, that would accurately and quickly diagnose flu, COVID-19, and RSV at the same time
• Approximately 3 in 4 US adults (78%) would take an antiviral medication to help reduce severe flu or COVID-19 symptoms if prescribed by a doctor or other healthcare professional
• Only about 1 in 4 US adults (26%) report they will wear a mask in healthcare settings this fall and winter, with Black (39%) and Hispanic (33%) adults more likely than White (19%) adults to wear a mask in a doctor’s office, pharmacy, or hospital this season.

For more information about the 2023 NFID survey and news conference, and to access resources for use throughout this season, visit www.nfid.org/2023flunews.

On October 4, 2023, NFID will host a flu vaccine clinic in Bethesda, MD at 12:30 PM ET, as part of the Leading by Example campaign to raise awareness about the importance of annual flu vaccination. Media interested in attending should reply via email to socialmedia@nfid.org by September 29, 2023. Attendance is limited and additional details will be shared with confirmed participants in advance.

About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases

Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. For more information, visit www.nfid.org.

NFID promotes a Take 3 approach to help prevent illness this fall and winter:

1. Get vaccinated
2. Practice healthy habits to help stop the spread of infectious diseases (wash hands often, stay home when sick, cover coughs and sneezes, and consider wearing a mask if you or a household member are at increased risk of severe illness)
3. Treat with prescription medication if recommended by a healthcare professional.

#GetVaccinated to help #StopTheSpread, #FightFlu, #PreventRSV, and #PreventPneumo.

2023 National Survey: Attitudes about Flu, COVID-19, RSV, and Pneumococcal Disease Prevention

The NFID survey was conducted by NORC at the University of Chicago. Data were collected using the AmeriSpeak Omnibus®, a monthly multi-client survey using the NORC probability-based panel designed to be representative of the US household population. Interviews for the survey were conducted between August 10-14, 2023, with adults age 18 years and older representing the 50 states and the District of Columbia. Panel members were randomly drawn from AmeriSpeak, and 1,000 completed the survey—913 via the web and 87 via telephone. Interviews were conducted in English.

This news conference is sponsored by NFID in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, with support from professional societies and patient advocacy partners and through unrestricted educational grants from GSK, Merck & Co., Inc., Pfizer Inc., Sanofi Pasteur, and Seqirus. NFID policies prohibit funders from controlling program content.

Contact: Ned Berkowitz, 914-740-8255, Ned.Berkowitz@evokegroup.com

Anthony S. Fauci, MD, recipient of the 1989 NFID Maxwell Finland Award for Scientific Achievement, and speaker at many NFID events over the decades, including NFID news conferences on flu and pneumococcal disease in 1985 and 2020, offered his heartfelt congratulations to NFID for its steadfast commitment to protecting public health over 5 decades:

NFID Executive Director and CEO Marla Dalton, PE, CAE, welcomed the audience, thanked NFID supporters, and debuted a video highlighting the remarkable 50-year history of NFID. NFID President Patricia (Patsy) A. Stinchfield, RN, MS, CPNP, then requested a moment of silence to remember the public health heroes and past awardees whom we have lost. Stinchfield reflected on the extraordinary journey that began in 1973 when two visionary individuals—John P. Utz and Richard J. Duma—came together with a shared goal: to create a national organization to support research, education, and prevention of infectious diseases. She recognized audience members including Christopher Utz and Jane Utz Hamilton, who attended in memory of their parents, Jack and Dorothy Utz, as well as 5 award recipients whom NFID was unable to honor in person due to the COVID-19 pandemic:

• Penny M. Heaton, MD, 2020 Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Humanitarian Award recipient
• Claire V. Broome, MD, 2020 Maxwell Finland Award for Scientific Achievement recipient
• Richard J. Whitley, MD, 2020 John P. Utz Leadership Award recipient
• William A. Petri, Jr., MD, MPH, 2021 Maxwell Finland Award for Scientific Achievement recipient
• Walter A. Orenstein, MD, 2021 John P. Utz Leadership Award recipient

Stinchfield also acknowledged current and prior members of the NFID Board of Directors and NFID Medical Director Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD. NFID Vice President and Awards Chair Kathleen M. Neuzil, MD, MPH, presented a tributes along with a compilation of congratulatory notes to William Schaffner, MD, who retired as NFID medical director in June 2023 and was honored for his decades of service to NFID as a past president, medical director, and current NFID spokesperson:

Widely known as the Oscars of Infectious Diseases, the elegant event was a joyous reunion of friends and colleagues who have dedicated their careers to improving public health!

Silent Auction

A highlight of the evening was the Silent Auction with fabulous items including Trips of a Lifetime (provided by AmFund), autographed memorabilia, event tickets, and more, proceeds of which help support NFID.

NFID 1973 Giving Society

The evening closed with a look to the future as Stinchfield announced the creation of the NFID 1973 Giving Society and invited all to join her as inaugural members. “NFID was founded in 1973, to help support research and education on the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases,” Stinchfield said. “With the advent of social media and other tools to spread misinformation and disinformation, the concerns from 1973 remain relevant today and our mission is as true and strong as ever.”

To join the 1973 Giving Society, make a gift or a pledge of $3,000 (over 1-3 years). This investment in the future of education empowers individuals and communities and helps ensure the sustainability of NFID.

To join the conversation and get the latest NFID updates, follow NFID on X (Twitter) using the hashtag #NFIDGala, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

mAbs are molecules produced in a lab to mimic the antibodies produced naturally by the immune system. When used against infectious diseases, mAbs are developed to target specific parts of viruses or bacteria, preventing them from entering cells or interfering with their ability to cause harm or infection.

mAbs Are Quickly Becoming a Powerful Tool

First approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1986, mAbs have been used to treat many diseases, including certain cancers and conditions including asthma or rheumatoid arthritis. Researchers are also investigating their use in infectious disease prevention and treatment, including flu, Ebola, Zika, and dengue—and mAbs are already demonstrating effectiveness  against SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

The COVID-19 pandemic posed an unprecedented challenge to global health and required rapid development of interventions. mAbs were quickly found to be an effective treatment. By targeting the spike protein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and blocking the virus from attaching to human cells, mAbs reduced COVID-19 viral load and effectively prevented progression to severe illness.

New Monoclonal Antibody Can Help Protect Infants from RSV

A new monoclonal antibody offers renewed hope in protecting vulnerable populations, especially preterm infants, from the potentially devastating consequences of RSV. Each year in the US, RSV leads to an estimated 2 million outpatient visits, 58,000-80,000 hospitalizations, and 100-300 deaths among children younger than age 5 years. That burden may be lessened due to the recent recommendation by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to use nirsevimab, a new long-acting monoclonal antibody, to help protect infants and young children who are at increased risk of severe illness caused by RSV. CDC recommends nirsevimab for all infants up to 8 months old, born during or entering, their first RSV season, and for infants and children age 8-19 months who are at increased risk of severe RSV disease entering their second RSV season.

The successful use of mAbs in the fight against COVID-19 and RSV has paved the way for further exploration of potential applications. Their unique targeting ability makes them a powerful tool, and ongoing exploration of mAbs against other infectious diseases holds promise for the future of disease prevention and treatment. Additionally, mAbs adaptability makes them a valuable tool for rapidly responding to emerging infectious diseases, allowing for swift development during future pandemics.

Help Raise Awareness with NFID Resources:

• • Co-brand and share the Monoclonal Antibodies Fact Sheet
  • Read the NFID Progress Report: Reducing the Burden of RSV across the Lifespan (April 2023) and Call to Action (January 2022) to learn how mAbs are being used to protect against RSV
  • Share Your RSV Story: Have you been affected by RSV? Share your story to help others learn more about this common but potentially serious disease.

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter), like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

WHO: The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Expert panelists will include:

• Mandy K. Cohen, MD, MPH, Director, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• Keith C. Ferdinand, MD, Professor of Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine
• Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD, NFID Medical Director
• William Schaffner, MD, NFID Spokesperson
• Patsy A. Stinchfield, RN, MS, CPNP, NFID President (Moderator)

     Additional Expert:  Vivien G. Dugan, PhD, Director, CDC Influenza Division

WHEN: Thursday, September 28, 2023, 9:30–10:30 AM ET

WHERE: Webcast

The NFID Flu Bugs greeted fans and handed out Are You a Flu Fighter? Coloring Books to help spread prevention messages. NFID fans waved their #FightFlu paddles throughout the game, and NFID debuted a new public service announcement (PSA) video, Are You That Person?, which aired on the Nats Jumbotron. Despite the weather (and the final score), NFID supporters had a great night at the ballpark!

NFID has sponsored the annual event since 2012, skipping 2020-2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Join NFID to Help #FightFlu

Join NFID for the 2023 Annual News Conference on Preventing Disease This Fall and Winter: What You Need to Know on Thursday, September 28, 2023, at 9:30 AM ET online. Leading national infectious disease experts will present final flu vaccine coverage data from the 2022-2023 US respiratory season and discuss the importance of vaccination against flu, respiratory syncytial disease (RSV), COVID-19, and pneumococcal disease. Results from a new NFID national survey of US adults on vaccination attitudes and behaviors will also be shared.

Panelists will include: Mandy K. Cohen, MD, MPH, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director; Keith C. Ferdinand, MD, Professor of Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine; Robert (Bob) H. Hopkins, Jr., MD, NFID Medical Director; William Schaffner, MD, NFID Spokesperson; Patricia (Patsy) A. Stinchfield, RN, MS, CPNP, NFID President (Moderator); with additional expert Vivien G. Dugan, PhD, CDC Influenza Division Acting Director.

Leading by Example

Show your commitment to flu prevention throughout the season by sharing photos and/or videos of your annual flu vaccination on social media.

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on X (Twitter) using the hashtag #FightFlu, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.

The US public health system is at a crucial juncture, as ongoing challenges and immediate needs reveal both the potential and the pressing need for change. The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated vulnerabilities in the current infrastructure, exposing disparities in healthcare access, inadequate funding for vital resources, and the repercussions of disjointed policymaking. This serves as a stark reminder that the overall well-being of a nation is intricately tied to the strength of its public health infrastructure.

More than 3 years have passed since the onset of COVID-19, yet the impacts of the pandemic on individual and public health, including uptake of routine vaccines, continues to present challenges. A combination of misinformation, disinformation, hesitancy, healthcare access challenges, and vaccine fatigue has further hindered the progress of vaccination efforts. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) kindergarten survey, pediatric vaccination rates have shown an annual decrease of 1% in vaccinated children, dropping from 95% in 2019 to 94% in 2020, and further decreasing to 93% in 2021 for measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTaP), polio, and varicella vaccines. These numbers reflect national averages, with some areas of the country being far worse than others.

Adult immunization rates, even before the pandemic, were already well below optimal levels. To provide directional data on recovery and measure progress in improving vaccine uptake, IQVIA has been conducting quarterly analyses of claims data for shingles, influenza (flu), and pneumococcal vaccinations in adults age 18 years and older and for tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis (Tdap) in pregnant women.

By utilizing a vast administrative claims and consumer data repository, the IQVIA Analytics Engine, comprising more than 300 million individuals, IQVIA created a longitudinal cohort of 60 million individuals encompassing both private and public insurance data across all 50 US states. The findings reveal persistently low rates among adults for routine vaccines from 2017 through March 2023.

Downward Trends in Adult Vaccination Rates

Looking at annual uptake from June 2017, flu vaccination rates peaked in the 2020-2021 season (June-May) with 70% among adults age 65 years and older and 55% in the younger age group, a year-over-year increase of 13.4% and 16.3%, respectively. When stratified by race/ethnicity, Asians had the highest uptake as compared to White, Hispanic, and Black adults. Even at its peak, Black adults had 37% lower uptake than their Asian counterparts, and 25% lower than White adults. Unfortunately, looking at the most recent flu season (ending in March 2023), the rates have declined again across the board, irrespective of race/ethnicity, income level, payor type, or urban/rural status.

Flu vaccination is recommended for everyone age 6 months and older on an annual basis. In contrast, pneumococcal vaccination is recommended for adults age 65 years and older and others with certain chronic health conditions, and shingles vaccination is recommended for all adults age 50 years and older as well as those age 19 years and older who have weakened immune systems because of disease or therapy. Neither are annual vaccinations. The rates of pneumococcal and shingles vaccinations over the past 5 years have remained relatively steady but low, with a further dip in 2021. However, there was an increase (0.6% or ~330,000 individuals) in shingles vaccination among those age 65 years and older in January 2023, likely attributed to the adjustment in Medicare Part D coverage, which eliminated patient cost sharing.

While seasonal influenza vaccine uptake consistently remains higher than other vaccines, it also decreased from the previous season among those age 18 years and older in 44 states, and among those age 65 years and older in 35 states.

Although a majority of the population embraces vaccination and supports immunization efforts, there has been a notable upswing in vaccine hesitancy and skepticism in recent years. While not an entirely new phenomenon, vaccine hesitancy resurged in parallel with the COVID-19 pandemic and contributed to a portion of the population delaying or declining COVID-19 vaccination. Factors contributing to this trend include misinformation propagated through social media, concerns regarding vaccine safety, mistrust in government or pharmaceutical entities, and an array of political, cultural, or personal beliefs.

The Benefits of Vaccination

The implications of low vaccination rates extend well beyond the immediate protection conferred by vaccines against specific pathogens. Long-term benefits of vaccination include heightened resilience against future outbreaks, improved educational and economic stability resulting from reduced school and work absenteeism, as well as fewer healthcare visits and decreased hospitalizations due to preventable illnesses. Another significant concern revolves around the escalating risk of antimicrobial resistance, as excessive antibiotic usage to manage vaccine-preventable infections may exacerbate this ongoing issue. By decreasing infections through widespread vaccination, we have an opportunity to conserve critical therapeutic resources for situations in which they are truly necessary. Additionally, compelling evidence underscores the impacts of infectious diseases like measles. The measles vaccine not only furnishes direct protection against measles but also help the immune system combat other infections.

The demand for concerted efforts to increase adult vaccination rates is clear. As political tides shift and debates persist, the time has arrived for comprehensive and bipartisan action. Strengthening the public health system necessitates investment in preventive measures, fortification of community healthcare services, and addressing the systemic barriers perpetuating health disparities. Only through a united effort to prioritize public health, transcending partisan divides, can the nation aspire to build a resilient and equitable foundation for the well-being and prosperity of all.

Learn more about vaccines recommended for adults and all age groups

To join the conversation and get the latest news on infectious diseases, follow NFID on Twitter, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, visit us on LinkedIn, listen and subscribe to the Infectious IDeas podcast, and subscribe to receive future NFID Updates.