For decades, vaccines have stood as a safeguard against preventable diseases, saving millions of lives and transforming once-feared illnesses into distant memories. This triumph of medical science represents not just a victory over individual diseases, but a testament to the power of collective action and trust in scientific advancement.

But misleading information, amplified by social media and ramped up by COVID-19 has led to a worrisome erosion of that trust. We must reaffirm the importance of vaccines by openly communicating with our patients: they are effective, they are safe, and our continued well-being depends on maintaining faith in the science that underpins them. For example, unreasonable criticism of vaccines has led to a 33-year record high in measles.

The impact of vaccines on human health is undeniable. Smallpox has been eradicated entirely thanks to a global vaccination effort. Polio, which paralyzed thousands of children annually, is now on the verge of eradication. Measles, mumps, rubella, whooping cough — diseases that once routinely caused serious complications and death — are now kept at bay by widespread vaccination programs.

Less appreciated is the dramatic decrease in childhood meningitis and sepsis, which were major problems. Cervical cancer is still seen in 10,000 women each year and causes 4,000 deaths, and that’s tragic, because 90% of those cases are preventable with vaccination.

These victories are not accidental; they are the direct result of rigorous scientific research, meticulous testing, and the unwavering dedication of worldwide health care professionals. The very fact that many of these diseases are now rare is a testament to the efficacy of vaccines. This rarity, however, has created a dangerous illusion of safety, leading some to question the necessity of continued vaccination. History teaches us a harsh lesson: When vaccination rates decline, these diseases return with alarming speed.

The safety of vaccines is subject to the most rigorous testing standards in medicine. Before any vaccine reaches the public, it undergoes years of extensive clinical trials, involving thousands of participants. This process is far more extensive than for most other medical interventions. Even after approval, safety monitoring continues with unprecedented intensity through sophisticated tracking systems that can detect even extremely rare side effects.

The COVID-19 vaccine was tested with thousands of volunteers. After it was released, side effects were closely monitored, but because the debate focused on personal freedom instead of science, the success of creating an effective vaccine quickly was lost.

Vaccines work in harmony with our bodies' natural defenses. They act as a training program for the immune system, teaching it to recognize and neutralize specific pathogens without causing the actual disease. This process involves introducing a harmless version of the germ — either weakened, inactivated, or just a critical piece of it — which triggers the immune system to produce antibodies.

These antibodies and memory cells remain vigilant, providing long-lasting protection. This protection extends beyond the individual, creating a shield of community immunity that safeguards vulnerable members of society who cannot be vaccinated, such as newborns, individuals with compromised immune systems, and those undergoing cancer treatment.

The recommended vaccination schedule, from childhood through adulthood, is a carefully orchestrated program designed to provide maximum protection at different life stages. Childhood vaccines lay the foundation for lifelong health, protecting against diseases like measles, mumps, rubella, and polio. As young people gain independence, vaccines like HPV and meningococcal become crucial.

Adults benefit from continued protection against influenza, shingles and pneumonia. Pregnant women, through vaccination, can protect both themselves and their newborns from serious respiratory illnesses. These vaccines represent a crucial investment in our collective health and well-being. Prevention is always better than cure.

Healthcare providers and scientists must champion the truth about vaccines when speaking to the public: they are a triumph of science, a cornerstone of public health, and a vital tool for protecting individuals and communities alike. We must empower ourselves with knowledge, seek information from credible sources, and engage in respectful dialogue to dispel misinformation. By reaffirming our trust in vaccines and the scientific process that underpins them, we can ensure a healthier, safer future for all.

The shield of vaccination has protected us for generations. We must not discard it now, because the ramifications would be tragic.

This guest essay reflects the views of Michael Dowling, president and CEO of Northwell Health, and Dr. Bruce Farber, Northwell’s chief of public health and epidemiology.