Nurses as primary advocates for immunization adherence

Immunizations, one of the greatest public health achievements, are at times hindered by a history of powerful biological, social, and cultural reactions from the public. State laws require immunizations for school entry, however some parents choose a nonmedical exemption for their children. Although many vaccine-preventable diseases are practically extinct in the United States, nurses have a unique role in increasing parents' understanding that herd immunity may not protect their unimmunized children. By listening to and addressing parents' concerns about immunizations, nurses can dispel misconceptions and help change parents' perceptions about the risks associated with immunizations.