Chicago Area Immunization Campaign (CAIC)

 

IMPORTANCE OF VACCINES

 

Before vaccines in the United States,

  • Polio would paralyze 10,000 children

  • Rubella caused birth defects in about 20,000 children

  • Measles infected about 3 million children

  • Diphtheria was one of the most common causes of death in school-aged children

 

Since vaccines, every year in the United States,

  • Polio paralyzes zero children

  • Rubella causes birth defects in 3 infants

  • Measles infects 80-100 children

  • Diphtheria causes disease in 2 children


Why are we concerned?

  • Large pockets of under-immunized children still remain

  • Parents are not fully aware of the complex immunization schedule

  • Anti-vaccine movements are creating fear and confusion among parents

  • Herd immunity decreases when more parents choose not to vaccinate

  • The 14 vaccine preventable diseases have not been eradicated from the world and remain a serious and life-threatening risk


The Chicago Area Immunization Campaign has developed an agenda and programs that address these major areas of concern.  Through advocacy and educational efforts, the CAIC works to increase immunization rates in the Chicagoland area.  If you would like to join us in our efforts, you may click here for more information.