The disadvantages of lack of immunization are numerous and far-reaching. Immunization is a critical part of public health and helps protect people from easily preventable and potentially deadly infectious diseases. When immunization rates drop, the consequences can be severe.
The most obvious disadvantage of lack of immunization is an increased risk of contracting a disease. Vaccines help create a level of herd immunity, which is protection from a disease for a large portion of a population. When immunization rates drop, herd immunity decreases, leaving more people vulnerable to infection. Diseases that were once rare can become widespread and cause serious illness or even death. For example, measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, but due to a decrease in immunization, there was an outbreak in 2019 with over 1,000 cases reported.
Low immunization rates can also have a major economic impact. Outbreaks of preventable diseases are costly; the CDC estimates that measles outbreaks cost between $2.7 million and $5.3 million in public health resources. In addition, outbreaks can lead to travel restrictions, lost work time, and hospitalization costs, which can be particularly detrimental to people in vulnerable communities who may have limited access to healthcare or financial resources.
Finally, low immunization rates can also contribute to mistrust of the medical system. When people are not immunized, it can lead to a lack of faith in the efficacy of vaccines and medical advice, which can lead to further health problems. Without public trust in the medical community, it is difficult for health professionals to convince people to follow public health guidelines and get the preventative care they need.
Overall, lack of immunization can have serious repercussions for individuals, communities, and society as a whole. It is essential that people are aware of the importance of immunization and take the necessary steps to get vaccinated and protect themselves and others from disease.