In 2009, I faced a new flu virus that started in Mexico and quickly spread to the U.S. It was concerning—especially since young, healthy people were getting seriously ill. There was no vaccine available, which raised alarms about a global pandemic.
Under President Obama, the U.S. swiftly put a response plan into action. Scientists and health leaders focused on sharing clear, science-based information. The top priority was to save lives without letting politics interfere. This focus paved the way for vaccine development. By summer 2009, the spread of H1N1 began to slow, thanks to a national vaccination campaign targeting those most at risk first.
International collaboration was key. The U.S. worked closely with the World Health Organization (WHO) and other nations to share vaccines. Historic agreements ensured that lower-income countries could access this life-saving medicine. The public trusted the scientists and followed health guidelines, even amid uncertainty.
Fast forward to 2020, and the approach to public health faced a sharp turn. With COVID-19, political leaders questioned scientific advice. Instead of unity, the nation saw division. Recommendations shifted as new data emerged, but the overall message was often lost in political debates. This environment made people skeptical, impacting trust in health officials.
According to a recent survey, 60% of Americans expressed doubts about vaccines during the pandemic. This hesitancy continued into the post-COVID era. The situation worsened with a growing anti-vaccine movement, fueled by influential figures who spread misinformation. It’s alarming that many leaders have sidelined public health officials and diminished efforts that once protected us from outbreaks. The CDC experienced significant funding cuts and staff departures, hampering its ability to respond effectively.
Take measles, for example. Before the vaccine’s introduction in 1963, millions faced the disease every year, resulting in tens of thousands of hospitalizations. Measles vaccinations have prevented over 90 million deaths worldwide. Yet, recent years have seen a troubling rise in cases, with over 2,000 reported in 2025 alone, primarily among unvaccinated individuals.
Public confidence in vaccination faces significant challenges. Experts once celebrated for their knowledge now find their advice debated on social media. Parents, while wanting the best for their children, may feel overwhelmed with conflicting information. Vaccination policies, once robust, are now under threat from those undermining decades of progress.
As a grandmother, I worry about the health of my grandchildren. With misinformation spreading, it’s crucial to rely on experts and maintain trust in science. We cannot afford to reverse the advancements we’ve made in public health. The health of future generations depends on informed choices and strong public health systems.
Kathleen Sebelius is the former Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and continues to advocate for public health issues. For more insights on health policy, visit the Kettering Foundation.
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