05/15/2025
“For centuries, we've sought ways to combat deadly diseases. The 1918-1919 Spanish Flu pandemic, which killed an estimated 20-50 million people (including 1 in 67 US soldiers), spurred the creation of the influenza vaccine.
Vaccines have been transformative. In the past 50 years, most children received vaccines as part of routine care and have not witnessed the diseases they prevent. Today, many physicians have never seen these nearly eradicated diseases. Vaccines protect individuals and limit disease spread.
I recall when chickenpox was common, and "chickenpox parties" were held to intentionally infect children. We didn't know then that chickenpox increases the risk of shingles later in life. The Varicella vaccine now prevents chickenpox with two doses, typically given at 12-15 months and 4-6 years.
Shingles is painful and can have long-lasting effects. I know people who have suffered greatly from it. The Shingrix vaccine is available for those 50+ to help prevent shingles or lessen its severity.
Public Health is about prevention, and I'm passionate about it, especially vaccines. In my 32+ years in Public Health, I've seen how vaccines protect against over 20 diseases. Child deaths have declined by over 50% in the last 30 years, largely due to vaccines. Vaccines undergo rigorous study and safety monitoring. Vaccination is a more reliable way to gain protection than getting sick.
Please, get vaccinated. Don’t wait until you lose someone you love to a vaccine preventable disease. Vaccines not only protect you the individual but also help protect vulnerable populations such as infants, the elderly and those with weakened immune system.
Not sure if you are up to date? Call me and I can show you how to access your immunization records through WIR (Wisconsin Immunization Registry).”
⭐️ Sheila Rine, Office Manager and Chair of the Langlade Co Immunization Coalition
715-627-6250
