Vaccines and Vaccination

Abstract

Current animosity against vaccinations has lead to an increasing number of parents (especially mothers) refusing to give their children some and even any immunizations. This is worrisome to many healthcare professions who are often perplexed regarding why some of the lay public (even with recognized academic education) would do this in spite of the scientificallyproven benefit of immunizations for all age groups. The rationalizations for such refusals in the 21st century are complex and not easy to fathom. Part of the explanation lies in the historical animosity that has existed for more than two centuries between the pro-vaccine groups and the anti-vaccine groups. This panorama explores pertinent historical trends starting with Alfred Russel Wallace (1823-1913) who was born the year Edward Jenner died and was the co-discover of the concept of natural selection . This chronicled perspective will also recapitulate the contributions of such luminaries as Bleuler, Kanner, Asperger, Bettlelheim, Rimland, Wakefield, and Offit. As we understand the historical basis for some of the current anti-vaccine malignity, we can develop more effective strategies to counter-act them for the benefit of society. Otherwise, more of the public will return to centuries-old concepts of mysticism, mantics, and magic for their healthcare.