Why Vaccines Matter — For Everyone

Vaccines save lives. They protect you, your family, and your neighbors from serious illness and death. Before the widespread use of vaccines, untold numbers of people died or were disfigured or permanently weakened by common diseases that can be easily prevented today. Vaccinations are the cornerstone of public health. 

But many communities of color—especially African American communities—still face gaps in access and in who gets vaccinated (also called "vaccine uptake," meaning people who get vaccinated). This isn't only about numbers. It's about trust, history, and action that can prevent disease.  

Did You Know? An enslaved man from Africa helped bring inoculation (an early form of vaccination) to the American colonies. In 1721, Onesimus shared this practice during a smallpox outbreak. It saved many lives and helped shape modern immunization. 

Despite the strong safety record of vaccines, African American communities often have lower vaccination rates than white communities: 

• In the 2023–2024 flu season, non-Hispanic African American adults were 10% less likely to get a flu shot than non-Hispanic white adults. 
• African American children born in 2020 were 10% less likely to be fully immunized by age two compared to white children. 
• For the HPV vaccine, African American women ages 19–26 were 20% less likely to have ever received a dose than white women of the same age. 
• During COVID-19, African Americans often had lower vaccination rates and higher hospitalization and death rates. 

The Facts Hit Close to Home

In Atlanta, these national patterns show up clearly. Areas with more African American residents and higher social vulnerability often have lower vaccine uptake and more emergency room visits for preventable diseases. Even adjusted for income, insurance, and where people live, race and neighborhood factors still predict who gets vaccinated.  

Why Do These Disparities Exist? Deeply Rooted Mistrust

There is a long history of medical harm, including the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, and ongoing barriers to care. This history has led to understandable mistrust and hesitancy. 

• Mistrust in healthcare and government is a major reason for vaccine hesitancy among many African American women and families. 
• Structural racism—policies and practices that disadvantage communities of color—still affects access to clinics, clear information, and quality care. 

The Danger of Misinformation

False claims can spread fast, especially online. This makes it harder to make good choices and can deepen fears based on real history and lived experience  

Vaccines Save Lives in Communities of Color 

Vaccines are one of the strongest tools available to close health gaps and protect families: 

• Prevent outbreaks of measles, flu, and COVID-19. 
• Reduce hospital stays and deaths from preventable diseases. 
• Protect those at highest risk—elders, children, and people with chronic conditions. 

HEALing Community Health: Your Trusted Vaccine Partner

At HEAL, we listen first and respect the history and needs of Atlanta's communities of color. We are committed to: 

• Sharing clear, fact-based, and culturally respectful vaccine information. 
• Partnering with local leaders, churches, schools, and trusted messengers to spread accurate messages  
• Offering easy, convenient access to all recommended vaccines for children and adults. 

Ready to protect yourself and your family?

Call or come by HEAL to check your vaccine status. One visit can help prevent serious illness—or even save a life.