Vaccines

Vaccines are one of the most powerful public-health tools available, and continued innovation and access are essential to help Americans of all ages live healthier lives.

Vaccines are the Foundation of Public Good Health

From childhood to older adulthood, vaccines protect individuals and communities. Over the last 30 years in the U.S., childhood vaccines have prevented more than one million early deaths and saved approximately $2.7 trillion in value to our health system. (Source: CDC)

“Infants are already at a high risk for contracting RSV, and premature babies often face even greater chances of complications from the virus due to underdeveloped immune symptoms. As a child born just two pounds in the NICU, I know how important preventative care is for families. Now as a healthy and strong woman, I wanted to do my part, and I received the RSV vaccine.”
– Brooke B., Patient Advocate

Vaccines work by training the immune system to recognize harmful pathogens before they can cause serious illness—some prevent disease entirely, others reduce severity and transmission or fight an existing disease.

Here’s what that looks like in action:

  • Smallpox has been eradicated worldwide thanks to vaccination.
  • Polio has been eliminated in the United States since the introduction of the vaccine in 1955.
  • Hepatitis B cases in children and teens have dropped by 99% since the vaccine began being administered shortly after birth.
  • Measles: Two doses of the MMR vaccine are ~97% effective at preventing infection.
  • Flu: During the 2019–2020 season alone, flu vaccines prevented an estimated 7.1 million illnesses and 7,100 deaths.


Vaccines strengthen individuals and families and help ensure a healthier future for everyone.

Protecting Innovation & Access

Vaccines are rigorously tested, approved, and continuously monitored for safety and effectiveness. Every U.S.‐approved vaccine undergoes large-scale clinical trials, independent review and ongoing surveillance by expert public-health agencies.

We can’t take access or innovation for granted—but we can protect and strengthen them. By having open and honest conversations, reducing barriers, and supporting smart policies, we can ensure people everywhere benefit from today’s vaccines and the next generation of breakthroughs to come.