Americans Value Vaccines, but Worry about Declines in Uptake & Innovation in Fight Against Infectious Diseases

The Partnership to Fight Infectious Disease (PFID) supports science-based policies that recognize the critical role of vaccines, antibiotics, and other antimicrobials in protecting people and communities from contagious illnesses. We encourage decision-makers not only to protect Americans’ access to FDA-approved vaccines, but also to take action to ensure vaccination rates remain at levels high enough to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. We also recognize the need for continued innovation as pathogens evolve and support the research and development of critical new antimicrobials and vaccines to keep America healthy and at the forefront of healthcare innovation.

We welcome the encouraging, bipartisan focus on improving Americans’ health. Instilling confidence and providing reliable information about the risks of infectious diseases and the benefits of vaccines are crucial to that mission. Our ability to prevent, treat, and cure infections using vaccines and antimicrobials has long been one of our greatest public health achievements. Thanks to decades of scientific research and innovation, vaccines and antimicrobials have saved millions of lives, eradicated deadly diseases, and protected generations from vaccine-preventable illnesses. This medical innovation has not only prevented deaths, but also eliminated severe disabilities experienced by survivors of the diseases that vaccines now prevent.

A recent public opinion poll focused on vaccines found that American voters regardless of political affiliations want leaders to protect vaccine accessibility and support continued innovation:

·         74% of American voters believe the U.S. should prioritize keeping FDA-approved vaccines widely available for everyone.

·         81% of voters want the U.S. to remain a leader in developing new vaccines.

·         Nearly 70% of respondents expressed concern over declining vaccination rates among children.

The full scope of this polling data underscores Americans’ desire to protect themselves, their families, and their communities from deadly diseases. Policies must remain grounded in science, medical expertise, and evidence-based solutions to maintain trust and advance public health outcomes.

At PFID, we are committed to:

·         Supporting science-driven, fact-based approaches to combat infectious diseases.

·         Raising awareness of and advancing solutions to counter the threats posed by infectious pathogens, including the growing crisis of antibiotic resistance.

·         Upholding the historical success of vaccines and antibiotics as cornerstones of public health.

·         Ensuring continued public confidence in vaccines through transparency, education, and accessibility.

As the U.S. continues to lead in vaccine research, development, and distribution, we urge policymakers to remain committed to proven public health principles and evidence-based decisions. Infectious pathogens continue to mutate to survive and spread. Our ability to prevent illness and make America healthier depends on our ability to prevent, treat, and cure infections. Together, we can continue to elevate the voices of public health and medical experts, share thorough, accurate information, and collaborate on effective policies to guide America’s response to preventable infectious diseases.

For more information, visit www.fightinfectiousdisease.org.