- Brionna Scott
- Spring 2026
Abstract
Abstract Vaccination recommendations and guidelines are frequently changing, leaving parents to wonder if their child’s vaccines are still safe. Previous research has indicated continued safety and low rates of serious risks, but concern persists. This is compounded by conflicting information provided by a trusted government agency. For this project, research examining risks and benefits associated with vaccines, public perceptions of vaccine safety, and technology used to test vaccine safety was compiled and analyzed to provide guidance for parents. These articles include peer-reviewed meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and qualitative studies. Combining these articles provides sound evidence regarding the benefits of vaccines and lowered childhood deaths, lack of mercury as an ingredient, common side effects, rarity of severe side effects, and the technology and testing used to promote safety before and after a vaccine is released. As vaccines continue to evolve, more research should be considered to remain up to date on vaccine safety recommendations. Parents ultimately make medical decisions for their children, but answering common questions in one easy-to-read infographic provides them with sound information to make informed decisions.
Keywords: vaccines, safety, side effects, benefits
