Recognition of Barriers Surrounding Vaccine-Preventable Diseases: Understanding this Controversy in Clinical Practice

One of the greatest achievements of modern medicine and vaccination was seen through the worldwide efforts of smallpox eradication. Today many vaccine preventable diseases are reemerging in pockets of underimmunized children and adults. As health care providers, we need to be cognizant of controversies surrounding vaccination. Our literature review will expose several of the more common barriers to immunizations. With this information we hope that health care providers (HCPs) will feel more empowered to discuss vaccine hesitancies with their patients to ensure that the current vaccination schedules are met. We have a unique opportunity to ensure missed or catch-up vaccines are made with every patient, at every visit.