Vaccinations save lives, protect our children and are one of our greatest public health achievements. As an older physician, I remember diseases like polio, measles, rubella and diphtheria afflicting hundreds of thousands of infants, children and adults, and killing thousands each year.

What many people do not realize is that our immune system is at the center of our defenses. And yes, it will become almost inactive without regular interactions with the natural world. So unvaccinated children are at the mercy of an epidemic of such diseases listed above.

Let me remind you of the polio epidemics of the past and the era of iron lungs and leg braces. The rubella epidemic of the 1960s resulted in thousands of newborn deaths, many more born blind, deaf or with other lifelong disabilities.

Is that what we want again? Absolutely not. It can be avoided by a simple vaccination.

Modern vaccines are highly effective and safe. They do not cause autism nor do they contain toxic chemicals.

We cannot be complacent. The recent measles outbreaks should be a reminder that vaccination is critical to all children.

Sharon J. Bintliff, MD

Clinical professor, John A. Burns School of Medicine

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