Is vaccine hesitancy bringing back diseases we thought were gone?

There’s something unsettling going on right now. Illnesses we thought were ancient history are starting to show up again. Think measles, mumps, whooping cough diseases our grandparents warned us about but most of us never really saw growing up.

The reason? It's not that science has changed. It's that vaccination rates have taken a hit.

While many parents are still staying on schedule with their kids' shots, more and more are skipping or delaying vaccines. Maybe it's because of fear, confusion, or something they saw online but the result is the same: more outbreaks of diseases we actually know how to prevent. And kids, especially little ones, are paying the price.

14 million kids missed vaccines in 2024
Yes, you read that right. According to new reports from WHO and UNICEF , over 14 million children didn't get a single vaccine in 2024. That’s not just a blip. It’s a big deal.

Nine countries accounted for over half of those unvaccinated kids, but the ripple effect is global. Even though a few more kids got at least one dose compared to 2023, the numbers still fall short of what’s needed. Nearly 20 million infants missed at least one shot in the DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis) series, and 14.3 million didn’t get any vaccines at all. That’s 1.4 million more than in 2019—so instead of moving forward, we’re sliding backward.


Wait—Is measles actually back?
Unfortunately, yes. In 2000, the U.S. proudly declared measles eliminated. But fast forward to 2024, and there were over 300 confirmed cases, mostly in kids who hadn’t been vaccinated.

And let’s not downplay this—measles isn’t just a fever and a rash. It’s insanely contagious (like, one infected person can spread it to 90% of people nearby who aren’t immune). It can cause pneumonia, brain swelling, and in some cases, it’s deadly.

And it’s not just measles making a comeback. Polio, whooping cough, even chickenpox—these are all creeping back into communities where vaccine hesitancy has taken root.


Why is this happening?
Honestly, part of the problem is that vaccines have worked too well. Most people today haven’t seen these diseases in real life, so they’ve stopped feeling scary. When you don’t see the damage, it’s easier to doubt the cure.

And then there’s the internet. Misinformation spreads fast—especially when it’s coming from influencers, conspiracy theorists, or people pretending to be experts. Throw in a little fear and a few “my friend’s cousin’s kid had a bad reaction” stories, and suddenly, vaccines start looking suspicious. But here’s the truth: vaccines are one of the best tools we’ve ever had for protecting kids and saving lives.


What happens when too many skip shots?
Here’s the thing about vaccines—they don’t just protect the person getting the shot. They protect everyone around them. It’s called herd immunity , and it’s the reason some diseases were nearly wiped out in the first place.

But when vaccine rates drop, herd immunity collapses. Suddenly, these diseases can spread like wildfire.

Imagine a school where only 80% of the kids are vaccinated for measles (way below the recommended 95%). If one infected kid shows up, the virus can fly through that classroom, infecting not just the unvaccinated but also anyone with a weak immune system.

It quickly turns from a “personal choice” into a public health crisis. Schools may need to shut down, hospitals get overwhelmed, and families are left scrambling. And all of it? Completely avoidable.

So what should parents know?
If you’re a parent who’s unsure or nervous about vaccines, you’re not alone. It’s totally okay to ask questions. Just make sure you’re getting answers from real experts—like your pediatrician or health agencies—not random YouTube videos or Facebook groups.

Ask about ingredients, timelines, side effects, long-term studies—whatever’s on your mind. Doctors have heard it all before, and they want to help you feel confident about your decision.

Also, remember: vaccinating your child isn’t just about them. It’s about protecting your neighbor’s newborn, your kid’s classmate going through chemo, or your elderly aunt with a weak immune system. It’s a simple way to keep everyone safe.

Disclaimer:
This article is meant for general information only and isn’t a substitute for professional medical advice. Always talk to your child’s doctor or a trusted healthcare provider before making decisions about vaccines or your family’s health. Everyone’s situation is different, so make sure you're getting advice that’s right for you.