Vaccines and Immunizations

Effective vaccines have transformed the world. Robust support for vaccination in the United States allowed us to eradicate Smallpox and eliminate polio, diphtheria, rubella and congenital rubella syndrome and, of course, measles. But a seismic shift that has taken place in recent years. Vaccine uptake is declining and measles outbreaks have emerged in the United States. Vaccines are the theme of this year's Darwin Day, an annual celebration in Iowa City of science, scientists and their contributions to humanity. Darwin Day guests and speakers join this episode to discuss the science behind vaccines, vaccine hesitancy and vaccine advocacy.

House lawmakers advanced a bill Wednesday that would end vaccine requirements for Iowans to enter elementary and secondary school.

New research on outer space, including simulating driving on the moon and studying the white dwarf stars. Then, remembering Dr. William Foege, whose public health contributions were essential in eradicating small pox.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has announced changes to vaccine recommendations for children and infants — raising questions and concerns for parents and pediatricians alike. We talk with pediatrician Dr. Amy Shriver about what’s changed in the childhood immunization schedule, as well as the overturning of policy on the hepatitis B vaccine for infants. Health policy expert Jen Kates of KFF joins to explain what the changes mean for insurance coverage, how states are responding and why vaccines remain available for families. Later, husband-and-wife musicians Annie and Dave Ducharme-Jones join to discuss their latest album, 'Lumina.'

Some Iowa physicians are concerned that the federal government is reducing the number of broadly recommended vaccines for children, from 17 vaccines to 11.

Polk County health officials confirmed the state's ninth case of measles in an infant who is too young to be vaccinated.

Two weeks after the arrest of former Des Moines Public Schools superintendent Ian Roberts, the district is finding its footing again.

Des Moines schools face uncertainty after Superintendent Ian Roberts’ arrest. Then, expert guidance on COVID-19 and flu vaccines this fall.

Charlie Kirk’s assassination sparks new debates over free speech in Iowa and across the country.

A disease prevention specialist shares what you need to know after a measles case was confirmed in Iowa and the U.S. Department of Health changed its guidance on COVID-19 vaccines.