Every Child Deserves Access To Vaccines.

In this episode, we dive into the rise of vaccine hesitancy, focusing on how it impacts children, families, and the future of public health.

Dr. Keisha Davis and Dr. Atoosa Kourosh break down the current climate surrounding vaccines, from new policy changes to social media misinformation, and what parents and providers can do to rebuild trust.

We discuss the recent firing and restructuring of the federal vaccine advisory panel, the push to remove thimerosal from flu vaccines, and the American Academy of Pediatrics’ stance on maintaining their current immunization schedule despite political shifts.

Key Points We Cover:

• Why vaccine hesitancy is spreading in the U.S.
• The role of politics and misinformation in eroding trust
• The RFK Jr. advisory panel changes & new thimerosal guidelines
• The pushback from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
• Updates on the new COVID-19 strain (FLiRT KP.2 / KP.3)
• Measles cases on the rise: Why outbreaks are happening again
• Tools and tips for parents to navigate vaccine information safely

Resources for Parents & Listeners:

• AAP Vaccine Resource Center for Parents
  https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/immunizations/Pages/default.aspx
• CDC Immunization Schedules
  https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/index.html
• AAP Statement on Federal Vaccine Policy Changes
  https://www.aap.org/en/news-room/news-releases/aap/2025/aap-responds-to-federal-vaccine-schedule-review/
• Tracking Measles Outbreaks
  https://www.cdc.gov/measles/cases-outbreaks.html
• Understanding Thimerosal and Flu Vaccines (FDA Resource)
  https://www.fda.gov/vaccines-blood-biologics/safety-availability-biologics/thimerosal-and-vaccines

Connect With Us:

Follow The Medical Collective Podcast for more conversations that matter:

🔗 https://themedicalcollective.komi.io

Meet the Host & Co-Host:

Dr. Keisha Davis, M.D.

Host, The Medical Collective Podcast

🔗 https://drkeishadavis.komi.io

🔗 https://themedicalcollective.komi.io

Dr. Atoosa Kourosh, M.D.

Co-Host, The Medical Collective Podcast

Board-Certified Allergy, Immunology & Pediatrics Specialist

🔗 Instagram: @holisticallergyimmunology

🔗 Website: https://www.doctoratoosa.com/