![Image for OPS Policy Statement on Vaccinations](https://oregonpediatricsociety.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/vaccine-670x455-c-default.jpg)
April 18, 2019
The Oregon Pediatric Society supports the American Academy of Pediatrics statement that vaccines protect children’s health and save lives. They prevent life-threatening diseases, including some forms of cancer. Vaccines have been part of the fabric of our society for decades and are the most significant medical innovation of our time.
Vaccines are safe. Vaccines are effective. Vaccines save lives.
Claims that vaccines are linked to autism, or are unsafe when administered according to the recommended schedule, have been disproven by a robust body of medical literature. Delaying vaccines only leaves a child at risk of disease. Vaccines keep communities healthy, and protect some of the most vulnerable in our society, including the elderly, and children who are too young to be vaccinated or have compromised immune systems.
Pediatricians partner with parents to provide the best care for their children, and what is best for children is to be fully vaccinated. We stand ready to work with state and local entities, pediatricians and practices to share the extensive scientific evidence demonstrating the safety of vaccines, including the recommended schedule.