News & Events

Video Series Addresses Immunization Myths

The COVID-19 pandemic highlights the devastating impact of communicable diseases.  To date, COVID-19 is responsible for over 187,000 reported cases and nearly 15,000 deaths in New Jersey. Our communities have suffered immeasurable losses.  Many families and businesses continue to struggle with the financial burdens as well.  Researchers are working hard to fast-track a vaccine to help prevent the spread of this deadly disease. But a disturbing rise in vaccine misinformation could jeopardize these critical public health efforts.  

According to the Centers for Disease Control, the percentage of children in the United States who don’t receive vaccinations has quadrupled since 2001. There is a growing concern among pediatricians and health officials about children who aren’t receiving the protection they need against vaccine-preventable diseases including measles, whooping cough, and other serious illnesses.  

The New Jersey Department of Health and the Partnership for Maternal and Child Health recently released a series of public education videos to debunk these dangerous myths and address the concerns parents may face when choosing to vaccinate their children.  The series highlights general immunization facts, flu prevention, and information on the Essex Metro Immunization Coalition (EMIC).  

“Parents sometimes have questions about vaccines and the diseases they prevent,” shared Emily Haines, Director of Public Health Initiatives at the Partnership. “Unfortunately, there is so much misinformation online about vaccines that can lead parents to avoid or delay vaccinations– a choice that could be harmful to the health of their family.  We developed this video series to help address some of those common misconceptions and provide individuals the resources they need to learn more about protecting their children from life-threatening diseases”.  

These short videos feature experts and advocates.  We’d like to thank Christina Tan, MD, MPH, State Epidemiologist and Assistant Commissioner at the New Jersey Department of Health; David Levine, MD,  Pediatrician at Summit Medical Group; and Joseph Schwab, MD, MPH, Pediatrician and Professor at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School; Emily Haines, MBA, BSN, RN, Director of Public Health Initiatives at the Partnership; Kendra Julien, MPH, Adolescent Immunization Specialist for the Partnership; Melinda Garcia, MPH, Public Health Programs Coordinator for the Partnership; and Morgan Levy, MD/MPH student at the University of Miami and AmeriCorps Member at Zufall Health Center for participating in this exciting video series. 

You can help promote vaccines and prevent diseases.  Please view the videos and share the information with family, friends, and colleagues. 

View Flu Facts Playlist 

View Immunization Facts Playlist 

View EMIC Playlist 

We are grateful for the New Jersey Department of Health for funding this project. 

Learn more about the Partnership’s immunization programs.