Vaccines Save Lives—Let’s Close the Gap in Our Communities
Vaccines are one of the most powerful tools we have to protect children and adults from preventable diseases. Yet, in the African American community, barriers to immunization continue to contribute to significant health disparities.
According to the CDC, vaccination rates among Black children are 6–10% lower than the national average for key childhood vaccines such as MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) and DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis). Among adults, the gaps are even more striking—flu and pneumonia vaccination rates are up to 20% lower than those of white adults. These differences lead to higher rates of complications, hospitalizations, and preventable deaths.
The roots of these disparities are complex—ranging from systemic inequities in healthcare access to historic mistrust in medical institutions, and financial challenges that make routine care less attainable. But there is hope—and there are solutions.
Local health departments, federally qualified health centers, and community-based clinics across the country are working hard to provide low or no-cost vaccines, especially for families who may not have a regular medical home. These services are essential in keeping children on schedule and ensuring that adults are protected too.
At the AAWP, we believe that every person—regardless of zip code, income, or background—deserves access to life-saving immunizations. By empowering our community with trusted information and accessible care, we can protect more lives and build a healthier future for generations to come.
✅ Vaccines save lives
✅ Vaccines prevent the spread of disease
✅ Vaccines build healthier communities
Let’s stand together to eliminate barriers and ensure that every family has access to this essential protection.
For resources and more information on immunizations, visit the AAWP website here.
Sponsored by Merck.
