The great vaccine debate involves questions of clinical practice, policy, and ethics. Is there a limit to the number of acceptable vaccines for children? What risks are acceptable to demand of members of the public to protect others? Who should assess the level of risk in vaccinations?

These are just a few of the questions that will be explored in a free public lecture at the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine at 5:30 p.m.on Thursday, Sept. 10, at the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, 2 Riverside Circle in Roanoke. Ample free parking is available.

The event, titled “What’s the Point? Vaccination Skepticism and Controversy,” will feature Bernice L. Hausman, professor of interprofessionalism at the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine and the Edward S. Diggs Professor in the Humanities at Virginia Tech, and Zach N. Adelman, associate professor of entomology at Virginia Tech’s Fralin Life Science Institute.

Hausman and Adelman will explore the concerns surrounding vaccinations and the origins of those concerns to promote better communication among doctors, public health professionals, patients, and parents. The speakers will also discuss the history and culture behind modern vaccine practices, including the development of vaccines and the regulatory process.

“The vaccination controversy has received a lot of attention in the media,” said David Trinkle, associate dean for community and culture at the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine. “Our lecture isn’t designed to take a stand one way or the other on vaccinations. Instead, we’ll be presenting user-friendly, scientifically based information that will help people form their own opinions.”

The event is sponsored by the school’s Creativity in Health Education program, which Trinkle leads.

Registration is encouraged for this free event. Individuals with disabilities who desire accommodation may contact Lynne Pearo-Baker or call 540-526-2300.

Written by Catherine Doss
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