Episode Details

Effective vaccines have transformed the world. Robust support for vaccination in the United States allowed us to eradicate Smallpox and eliminate polio, diphtheria, rubella and congenital rubella syndrome and, of course, measles. But a seismic shift that has taken place in recent years. Vaccine uptake is declining and measles outbreaks have emerged in the United States. Vaccines are the theme of this year's Darwin Day, an annual celebration in Iowa City of science, scientists and their contributions to humanity. Darwin Day guests and speakers join this episode to discuss the science behind vaccines, vaccine hesitancy and vaccine advocacy.