Health Tech VCC

"Diseases that were largely eradicated in the United States a generation ago-whooping cough, measles, mumps-are returning, in part because nervous parents are skipping their children's shots. NOVA's "Vaccines - Calling the Shots" takes viewers around the world to track epidemics, explore the science behind vaccinations, hear from parents wrestling with vaccine-related questions,and shed light on the risks of opting out." This airs Wednesday, September 10, 2014 on PBS at 9 p.m. and Thursday September 11 at 12:30 p.m.

Article about immunization effort in Nicaragua

"This module educates the audience about the ways that Florida SHOTS safeguards shot records and can be used as a tool by medical professionals to promote healthy immunization levels. It also addresses the availability and importance of the Vaccines for Children program as a tool to ensure all children are appropriately immunized."

"This module examines the effect of immunizations on a global and mobile society and the lack of education among younger generations about the widespread damage of vaccine-preventable diseases. It features stories of widespread outbreak and containment and pulls in state-specific epidemiology data. The module includes an interview with Rodney Throgmorton whose infant daughter died from pertussis."

"Vaccinations have been hailed as one of the most important health advances in history. But the same vaccines that have spared so many illness and death are coming under fire. Examine the safety and effectiveness of vaccines. How do they protect us, common concerns, and the immunizations you and your family need to stay healthy. From HPV to shingles we've got you covered."

"Recently, the safety of vaccines has been in the spotlight. This module examines the safety of vaccines and the low occurrence of most adverse events, in comparison to the risks and fears. It also covers surveillance programs in place to monitor vaccine safety."

"This module spotlights the vaccines given during the first few years of life. We address autism fears versus the scientific evidence as well as the accessibility to those vaccines through VFC. The module includes an interview with Lori Hopps whose daughter is permanently disabled due to pneumococcal disease."

"This module addresses the vaccine decisions adolescents are facing today, mainly HPV and meningitis outbreaks, and immunization against those diseases. We also highlight the accessibility to those vaccines through VFC and overcoming parental objections. The modules include an interview with meningitis survivor Abby Wold."

"This module focuses on the history of vaccinations and how immunizations have changed the way we live. Immunizations have eliminated some diseases and increased our lifespans by about 30 years. The module includes information about the development and introduction of the polio vaccine in the US and includes an interview with polio survivor Jan Nichols whose brother died of the disease. "

"By getting their recommended immunizations before 2 years old, babies are fighting off preventable diseases. Tune in Wed. at 7 p.m. and Sun. at 10:30 a.m. as we look at how getting a shot might be one of the most important steps a parent can take to protect their child's health."

"A compelling look at the impact vaccines have had on public health and the science of vaccine safety. The documentary features powerful testimonials from families affected by vaccine-preventable diseases as well as interviews with world-renowned vaccine experts. Immunization successes, such as the national effort to eliminate polio, are detailed as are continued immunization challenges."