Vaccination

Vaccines have saved over 150 million lives in the past 50 years, and are a vital tool in a layered health & safety strategy.^{Footnote 193} Depending on the illness, vaccines may strongly reduce infection and transmission (e.g., for measles),^{Footnote 194} or they may reduce risks of hospitalization and death even when they do not fully prevent transmission or long-term health impacts (e.g., for COVID-19).^{Footnote 195} Higher community vaccination rates can decrease risk of outbreaks, and in some circumstances, lead to regional elimination of an illness.^{Footnote 196} There is consistent evidence that some vaccines can provide added benefits (e.g., reducing risks of heart attacks, strokes, dementia).^{Footnote 197}

While vaccines are safe and effective for the vast majority of people, some people cannot get all types of vaccines.^{Footnote 198} Immunocompromised people often receive weaker protection from vaccines,^{Footnote 199} and protection can wane over time or with new illness variants.^{Footnote 200} Some infectious illnesses like measles can cause immune damage that may erase previous immunity, known as “immune amnesia.”^{Footnote 201}

Even when vaccinated, it remains important to use layered health & safety measures—especially as some contagious illnesses do not yet have vaccines.^{Footnote 202} By encouraging consistent, up-to-date vaccination among those who are able, production teams can create a healthier environment for everyone.