Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

If You Are Scared Of Needles, Scientists May Have A 'Painless' Dental Solution For Your Next Vaccine

If You Are Scared Of Needles, Scientists May Have A 'Pain-free' Dental Solution For Your Next Vaccine

For decades, getting vaccinated has meant rolling up your sleeve, bracing for a quick jab, and hoping the soreness fades within a day. But a team of researchers may have just discovered a way to sidestep the needle entirely — by delivering vaccines through something as ordinary as dental floss.

The idea sounds almost too simple: coat floss or a floss pick with a vaccine, thread it between your teeth, and let your gums do the rest. But the science behind it is far from gimmicky. This novel approach targets a unique spot in the mouth called the <span>junctional epithelium</span>, an unusually permeable layer of tissue where the gums meet the teeth. And according to early research, this entry point could unlock stronger protection against respiratory infections — and for some people, make getting vaccinated a far less stressful experience.

Most viruses that wreak havoc on the body, including influenza and <span>COVID-19</span>, first invade through the mucosal surfaces of the mouth, nose, or lungs. Traditional injectable vaccines do an excellent job of generating antibodies in the bloodstream, but they’re less effective at producing antibodies along these mucosal barriers — the body’s first defense line.

Dr. Harvinder Singh Gill, a professor in nanomedicine at North Carolina State University and senior author of the study, explains the advantage: “When a vaccine is given via a mucosal surface, antibodies are stimulated not only in the bloodstream but also on mucosal surfaces. This improves the body’s ability to prevent infection, because there’s an additional line of defense before a pathogen even enters the body.”

That’s where the junctional epithelium comes in. Unlike most epithelial layers that are tightly sealed to keep invaders out, the JE is intentionally “leaky” so immune cells can patrol and defend against the constant barrage of oral bacteria. This leakiness is exactly what makes it an appealing vaccine delivery route.

To test the concept, researchers applied a peptide-based flu vaccine to unwaxed dental floss, then used it to floss the teeth of lab mice. The results were striking. The floss-based delivery triggered far higher antibody responses on mucosal surfaces than the current gold-standard oral method — placing a vaccine under the tongue.

In fact, the immune protection was comparable to delivering the same vaccine through the nasal cavity, which is widely considered the most effective mucosal route. The big difference? Nasal vaccination comes with safety concerns, including the rare but serious possibility that the vaccine could migrate to the brain. The floss technique avoids that risk entirely.

Lead author Rohan Ingrole, who conducted the research during his doctoral studies at Texas Tech University, adds that the method also worked across multiple vaccine types — including protein-based vaccines, inactivated viruses, and mRNA formulations. In each case, the floss delivery triggered robust immune responses both in the bloodstream and across mucosal surfaces.

<h2>What Is the Junctional Epithelium?</h2>

The JE sits deep in the gum pocket, where it forms a protective seal between the tooth and surrounding gum tissue. Its structure lacks many of the tight junctions found in other mucosal linings, making it easier for molecules — including vaccine antigens — to cross. And because it’s already brimming with immune cells, any antigen that slips through is quickly flagged, sparking an immune reaction.

Delivering a vaccine here isn’t straightforward. The tissue is tucked away and can’t be reached with a simple swab or spray. Dental floss, however, is designed to slip into exactly that space — which is why it’s the perfect vehicle for the job.

<h2>Flossing Vaccine Shows Success In Early Human Trials</h2>

While full-scale human vaccine trials are still a way off, the researchers ran a smaller test to confirm whether people could successfully target the junctional epithelium using floss picks. They coated floss with fluorescent food dye and asked 27 volunteers to try to deposit the dye into their gum pockets. The results were encouraging: about 60% of the dye ended up exactly where it needed to be.

This success suggests that with the right design, floss picks could be a practical, self-administered vaccine delivery tool — potentially mailed to people’s homes in the future.

Needle-free vaccination is more than just a comfort perk. Globally, needle phobia is a significant barrier to vaccine uptake, even among adults. There’s also the risk of unsafe injection practices, which can transmit blood-borne diseases in settings without strict medical oversight.

A floss-based vaccine could address several of these challenges. It’s simple to administer, doesn’t require a healthcare professional, and could be distributed more easily in hard-to-reach areas. Storage and transport could also be simplified compared to injectable vaccines that require strict cold-chain logistics.

Dr. Gill notes another advantage: eating and drinking immediately after floss-based vaccination doesn’t appear to interfere with the immune response — at least in animal models. That flexibility could make it easier for people to incorporate vaccination into daily routines without major disruptions.

<h2>Are There Any Limitations to Such Vaccines?</h2>

Despite the promise, this approach isn’t without drawbacks. It wouldn’t work for infants or toddlers without teeth, and it may be less effective for people with gum disease or severe oral infections. Researchers also need to study how different oral health conditions could influence vaccine uptake and immune response.

For now, the team’s next step is to refine the delivery system and begin clinical safety trials. If successful, floss-based vaccines could become an alternative option for seasonal flu shots, pandemic preparedness, and even certain routine immunizations.

The floss vaccine fits into a growing push to move beyond injections. Researchers have explored dissolvable microneedle patches, inhalable vaccines, and even edible vaccine capsules. Each approach aims to make vaccination less invasive, easier to distribute, and more acceptable to populations hesitant about traditional methods.

In this case, the innovation comes from using a tool that people already know and can use on their own. The fact that it could also boost <span>mucosal immunity</span> something standard injections struggle to do — makes it even more compelling.

We’re still years away from picking up a vaccine-coated floss pick at the pharmacy, but the groundwork is being laid. If clinical trials confirm its safety and effectiveness, floss-based vaccination could offer a new, accessible, and needle-free way to protect against some of the world’s most common and dangerous infections.

Health Conditions A-Z

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COVID-19

floss based vaccine

needle free vaccination

junctional epithelium

mucosal immunity

dental floss vaccine

gum pocket vaccine

vaccine innovation

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For decades, getting vaccinated has meant rolling up your sleeve, bracing for a quick jab, and hoping the soreness fades within a day. But a team of researchers may have just discovered a way to sidestep the needle entirely — by delivering vaccines through something as ordinary as dental floss.The idea sounds almost too simple: coat floss or a floss pick with a vaccine, thread it between your teeth, and let your gums do the rest. But the science behind it is far from gimmicky. This novel approach targets a unique spot in the mouth called the junctional epithelium, an unusually permeable layer of tissue where the gums meet the teeth. And according to early research, this entry point could unlock stronger protection against respiratory infections — and for some people, make getting vaccinated a far less stressful experience.Most viruses that wreak havoc on the body, including influenza and COVID-19, first invade through the mucosal surfaces of the mouth, nose, or lungs. Traditional injectable vaccines do an excellent job of generating antibodies in the bloodstream, but they’re less effective at producing antibodies along these mucosal barriers — the body’s first defense line.Dr. Harvinder Singh Gill, a professor in nanomedicine at North Carolina State University and senior author of the study, explains the advantage: “When a vaccine is given via a mucosal surface, antibodies are stimulated not only in the bloodstream but also on mucosal surfaces. This improves the body’s ability to prevent infection, because there’s an additional line of defense before a pathogen even enters the body.”That’s where the junctional epithelium comes in. Unlike most epithelial layers that are tightly sealed to keep invaders out, the JE is intentionally “leaky” so immune cells can patrol and defend against the constant barrage of oral bacteria. This leakiness is exactly what makes it an appealing vaccine delivery route.To test the concept, researchers applied a peptide-based flu vaccine to unwaxed dental floss, then used it to floss the teeth of lab mice. The results were striking. The floss-based delivery triggered far higher antibody responses on mucosal surfaces than the current gold-standard oral method — placing a vaccine under the tongue.In fact, the immune protection was comparable to delivering the same vaccine through the nasal cavity, which is widely considered the most effective mucosal route. The big difference? Nasal vaccination comes with safety concerns, including the rare but serious possibility that the vaccine could migrate to the brain. The floss technique avoids that risk entirely.Lead author Rohan Ingrole, who conducted the research during his doctoral studies at Texas Tech University, adds that the method also worked across multiple vaccine types — including protein-based vaccines, inactivated viruses, and mRNA formulations. In each case, the floss delivery triggered robust immune responses both in the bloodstream and across mucosal surfaces.What Is the Junctional Epithelium?The JE sits deep in the gum pocket, where it forms a protective seal between the tooth and surrounding gum tissue. Its structure lacks many of the tight junctions found in other mucosal linings, making it easier for molecules — including vaccine antigens — to cross. And because it’s already brimming with immune cells, any antigen that slips through is quickly flagged, sparking an immune reaction.Delivering a vaccine here isn’t straightforward. The tissue is tucked away and can’t be reached with a simple swab or spray. Dental floss, however, is designed to slip into exactly that space — which is why it’s the perfect vehicle for the job.Flossing Vaccine Shows Success In Early Human TrialsWhile full-scale human vaccine trials are still a way off, the researchers ran a smaller test to confirm whether people could successfully target the junctional epithelium using floss picks. They coated floss with fluorescent food dye and asked 27 volunteers to try to deposit the dye into their gum pockets. The results were encouraging: about 60% of the dye ended up exactly where it needed to be.This success suggests that with the right design, floss picks could be a practical, self-administered vaccine delivery tool — potentially mailed to people’s homes in the future.Needle-free vaccination is more than just a comfort perk. Globally, needle phobia is a significant barrier to vaccine uptake, even among adults. There’s also the risk of unsafe injection practices, which can transmit blood-borne diseases in settings without strict medical oversight.A floss-based vaccine could address several of these challenges. It’s simple to administer, doesn’t require a healthcare professional, and could be distributed more easily in hard-to-reach areas. Storage and transport could also be simplified compared to injectable vaccines that require strict cold-chain logistics.Dr. Gill notes another advantage: eating and drinking immediately after floss-based vaccination doesn’t appear to interfere with the immune response — at least in animal models. That flexibility could make it easier for people to incorporate vaccination into daily routines without major disruptions.Are There Any Limitations to Such Vaccines?Despite the promise, this approach isn’t without drawbacks. It wouldn’t work for infants or toddlers without teeth, and it may be less effective for people with gum disease or severe oral infections. Researchers also need to study how different oral health conditions could influence vaccine uptake and immune response.For now, the team’s next step is to refine the delivery system and begin clinical safety trials. If successful, floss-based vaccines could become an alternative option for seasonal flu shots, pandemic preparedness, and even certain routine immunizations.The floss vaccine fits into a growing push to move beyond injections. Researchers have explored dissolvable microneedle patches, inhalable vaccines, and even edible vaccine capsules. Each approach aims to make vaccination less invasive, easier to distribute, and more acceptable to populations hesitant about traditional methods.In this case, the innovation comes from using a tool that people already know and can use on their own. The fact that it could also boost mucosal immunity something standard injections struggle to do — makes it even more compelling.We’re still years away from picking up a vaccine-coated floss pick at the pharmacy, but the groundwork is being laid. If clinical trials confirm its safety and effectiveness, floss-based vaccination could offer a new, accessible, and needle-free way to protect against some of the world’s most common and dangerous infections.

if you are scared of needles, scientists may have a 'painless' dental solution for your next vaccine

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Tennis great <span>Monica Seles</span>, in an interview with Associated News, recently shared that she was diagnosed with <span>myasthenia gravis</span> (MG) three years ago. This is the first time she's spoken publicly about the disease, which is a rare condition that causes muscles to become weak. 

Seles, who won nine major tennis titles, first noticed something was wrong while hitting tennis balls. She said she started seeing two balls instead of one and felt a sudden weakness in her arms and legs. She also mentioned that simple things like blowing out her hair became very difficult. 

Seles said it was hard for her to accept the diagnosis at first. She decided to speak out to help others, hoping her story will bring more attention to myasthenia gravis. Before she got her diagnosis, she had never heard of the condition. 

<h2><span rel="noindex">What Is Myasthenia Gravis</span>? </h2>

Medscape explains that myasthenia gravis is a <span>chronic neuromuscular disease</span>. This means it's a long-term illness that affects the way your nerves and muscles work together. It causes weakness in the muscles that you can control, such as those in your arms, legs, and face. While it can affect people of any age, it is most common in: 

<ul><li>Young women under 40</li><li>Older men over 60</li></ul>

<ul><li>Visual problems which includes drooping eyelids and seeing double.</li><li>Your muscles might feel weak and tired very quickly, and this can change from day to day or even hour to hour.</li><li>Your facial muscles can become weak, which may make a smile look more like a snarl.</li><li>Difficulty speaking or swallowing, you might also have trouble pronouncing words or swallowing food.</li><li>Weakness in the neck or limbs like your arms, legs, or neck may feel weak</li></ul>

The symptoms of MG can sometimes look like other conditions, so it's always important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis. People with MG may experience periods when their symptoms get worse (flare-ups) and periods when they get better (remission), but the condition is rarely cured completely. 

<h2>How is Myasthenia Gravis Diagnosed? </h2>

To figure out if you have MG, your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. One key way they test for it is by giving you a specific medicine. If your muscle weakness quickly gets a lot better after taking the medicine, it's a strong sign that you have MG. 

Doctors might also use other tests. They can do blood tests to look for certain antibodies that are common in people with MG. They might also use nerve and muscle tests to see how your nerves are sending signals to your muscles and to measure your muscle's electrical activity. 

<h2>Treatment and Management of Myasthenia Gravis </h2>

While there's no cure for MG, the symptoms can be controlled. The main goal of treatment is to make your muscles stronger and prevent problems with breathing and swallowing. Most people with MG can live normal or close-to-normal lives with the right care. 

Treatment often includes medicine, such as drugs that control the immune system or help your muscles work better. Sometimes, a doctor may suggest surgery to remove the thymus gland, which can help reduce symptoms for many people. Other treatments, like plasmapheresis, can be used to remove the bad antibodies from your blood. 

<h2>Can You Prevent Myasthenia Gravis? </h2>

To help prevent a myasthenia crisis, you should always take your medicines exactly as prescribed. It can also help to take your medicine 30 to 45 minutes before meals to prevent food from getting into your lungs. 

Try to avoid getting sick by staying away from people with colds or the flu, and make sure you get proper nutrition, rest, and manage your stress. It is also very important to always tell your doctors about your MG diagnosis and the medicines you are taking before they prescribe you anything new. Some medicines can interfere with your condition or your treatment. 

The most serious complication of MG is a myasthenia crisis. This is when you have extreme muscle weakness, especially in the muscles you need to breathe. This is a medical emergency and may require help from a breathing machine. 

Seles, who is 51, said she has learned to live with a "new normal." She sees this challenge as just another "reset" in her life, similar to when she moved to the U.S. as a young teenager or when she was recovering from a stabbing. Her message is one of strength and a reminder to always adjust, just like a tennis player on the court. 

Monica Seles

Tennis Player Monica Seles

Myasthenia Gravis

chronic neuromuscular disease

What is Myasthenia Gravis

Myasthenia Gravis Symptoms

Tennis great Monica Seles, in an interview with Associated News, recently shared that she was diagnosed with myasthenia gravis (MG) three years ago. This is the first time she's spoken publicly about the disease, which is a rare condition that causes muscles to become weak. Seles, who won nine major tennis titles, first noticed something was wrong while hitting tennis balls. She said she started seeing two balls instead of one and felt a sudden weakness in her arms and legs. She also mentioned that simple things like blowing out her hair became very difficult. Seles said it was hard for her to accept the diagnosis at first. She decided to speak out to help others, hoping her story will bring more attention to myasthenia gravis. Before she got her diagnosis, she had never heard of the condition. What Is Myasthenia Gravis? Medscape explains that myasthenia gravis is a chronic neuromuscular disease. This means it's a long-term illness that affects the way your nerves and muscles work together. It causes weakness in the muscles that you can control, such as those in your arms, legs, and face. While it can affect people of any age, it is most common in: Young women under 40Older men over 60Symptoms of Myasthenia Gravis The most common symptoms of MG are: Visual problems which includes drooping eyelids and seeing double.Your muscles might feel weak and tired very quickly, and this can change from day to day or even hour to hour.Your facial muscles can become weak, which may make a smile look more like a snarl.Difficulty speaking or swallowing, you might also have trouble pronouncing words or swallowing food.Weakness in the neck or limbs like your arms, legs, or neck may feel weakThe symptoms of MG can sometimes look like other conditions, so it's always important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis. People with MG may experience periods when their symptoms get worse (flare-ups) and periods when they get better (remission), but the condition is rarely cured completely. How is Myasthenia Gravis Diagnosed? To figure out if you have MG, your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. One key way they test for it is by giving you a specific medicine. If your muscle weakness quickly gets a lot better after taking the medicine, it's a strong sign that you have MG. Doctors might also use other tests. They can do blood tests to look for certain antibodies that are common in people with MG. They might also use nerve and muscle tests to see how your nerves are sending signals to your muscles and to measure your muscle's electrical activity. Treatment and Management of Myasthenia Gravis While there's no cure for MG, the symptoms can be controlled. The main goal of treatment is to make your muscles stronger and prevent problems with breathing and swallowing. Most people with MG can live normal or close-to-normal lives with the right care. Treatment often includes medicine, such as drugs that control the immune system or help your muscles work better. Sometimes, a doctor may suggest surgery to remove the thymus gland, which can help reduce symptoms for many people. Other treatments, like plasmapheresis, can be used to remove the bad antibodies from your blood. Can You Prevent Myasthenia Gravis? To help prevent a myasthenia crisis, you should always take your medicines exactly as prescribed. It can also help to take your medicine 30 to 45 minutes before meals to prevent food from getting into your lungs. Try to avoid getting sick by staying away from people with colds or the flu, and make sure you get proper nutrition, rest, and manage your stress. It is also very important to always tell your doctors about your MG diagnosis and the medicines you are taking before they prescribe you anything new. Some medicines can interfere with your condition or your treatment. The most serious complication of MG is a myasthenia crisis. This is when you have extreme muscle weakness, especially in the muscles you need to breathe. This is a medical emergency and may require help from a breathing machine. Seles, who is 51, said she has learned to live with a "new normal." She sees this challenge as just another "reset" in her life, similar to when she moved to the U.S. as a young teenager or when she was recovering from a stabbing. Her message is one of strength and a reminder to always adjust, just like a tennis player on the court. 

tennis player monica seles opens up about her myasthenia gravis diagnosis

Ishita Roy

FDA Vaccination Chief Vinay Prasad Returns To Job Within Days After Quitting Under Pressure, Who Is He?

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Dr. <span>Vinay Prasad</span>, who resigned just two weeks ago as head of the Food and Drug Administration’s vaccines and gene therapy division, is returning to the agency in a rare reversal. The Department of Health and Human Services confirmed his reinstatement on Saturday, with spokesperson Andrew Nixon saying Prasad will resume leadership of the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research at the FDA’s request.

Prasad’s ouster in late July followed sustained pressure from biotech executives, patient advocacy groups, conservative figures, and right-wing activist Laura Loomer. Loomer, who has previously demonstrated influence over Trump administration personnel decisions, accused Prasad of being a “progressive leftist saboteur” and, more recently, a “Marxist,” pointing to his past praise for Senator Bernie Sanders.

<h4>Resignation Amid Political and Public Backlash</h4>

The decision to push him out came after weeks of mounting criticism, fueled in part by a series of editorials faulting him for denying drug approvals and ordering a pause on a medication linked to several patient deaths. Loomer and other critics also drew attention to comments Prasad had made about Donald Trump before joining the administration.

Before his resignation on July 29, both Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary defended Prasad, calling him a scientist of exceptional rigor. Makary publicly described him as “impeccable,” while Kennedy privately noted his preference for Prasad’s cautious approach to vaccine approvals.

<h4>A Record of Tough Regulatory Calls</h4>

Since joining the FDA, Prasad has drawn attention for decisions that prioritized safety and efficacy over speed. He declined to approve multiple high-profile drugs, including treatments for advanced skin cancer and heart conditions in patients with a rare muscle disorder, arguing that the agency should resist approving high-cost drugs with uncertain benefits.

In May, he played a key role in limiting the use of COVID-19 vaccines to those over 65 and people with health conditions that put them at greater risk of severe illness. Under his leadership, the FDA restricted approvals for new shots from Novavax and Moderna and set stricter testing requirements for future vaccines.

His most controversial move came when he ordered the halt of Sarepta Therapeutics’ gene therapy shipments for Duchenne muscular dystrophy after two teenage boys and a 51-year-old man died in cases deemed related to the medication. The decision met fierce resistance from families of patients and advocates for expanded access to experimental treatments, as well as criticism from political figures and editorial boards. The FDA later reversed the suspension, allowing shipments for younger patients to resume.

<h4>A History of Outspoken Criticism</h4>

Before his government role, Prasad was an oncologist and epidemiologist at the University of California, San Francisco, where he gained a large following through Substack, YouTube, and other platforms. Known for sharp and sometimes expletive-laced critiques of public health policy, he frequently challenged the FDA’s pandemic-era decisions and called for greater scrutiny of medical products.

His reinstatement underscores the influence Kennedy and Makary still hold within the Trump administration and signals that, despite political headwinds, Prasad’s hardline approach to drug and vaccine oversight will continue to shape U.S. healthcare policy.

FDA Vaccine Chief

indian origin vinay prasad

health news

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who is vinay prasad

Dr. Vinay Prasad, who resigned just two weeks ago as head of the Food and Drug Administration’s vaccines and gene therapy division, is returning to the agency in a rare reversal. The Department of Health and Human Services confirmed his reinstatement on Saturday, with spokesperson Andrew Nixon saying Prasad will resume leadership of the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research at the FDA’s request.Prasad’s ouster in late July followed sustained pressure from biotech executives, patient advocacy groups, conservative figures, and right-wing activist Laura Loomer. Loomer, who has previously demonstrated influence over Trump administration personnel decisions, accused Prasad of being a “progressive leftist saboteur” and, more recently, a “Marxist,” pointing to his past praise for Senator Bernie Sanders.Resignation Amid Political and Public BacklashThe decision to push him out came after weeks of mounting criticism, fueled in part by a series of editorials faulting him for denying drug approvals and ordering a pause on a medication linked to several patient deaths. Loomer and other critics also drew attention to comments Prasad had made about Donald Trump before joining the administration.Before his resignation on July 29, both Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary defended Prasad, calling him a scientist of exceptional rigor. Makary publicly described him as “impeccable,” while Kennedy privately noted his preference for Prasad’s cautious approach to vaccine approvals.A Record of Tough Regulatory CallsSince joining the FDA, Prasad has drawn attention for decisions that prioritized safety and efficacy over speed. He declined to approve multiple high-profile drugs, including treatments for advanced skin cancer and heart conditions in patients with a rare muscle disorder, arguing that the agency should resist approving high-cost drugs with uncertain benefits.In May, he played a key role in limiting the use of COVID-19 vaccines to those over 65 and people with health conditions that put them at greater risk of severe illness. Under his leadership, the FDA restricted approvals for new shots from Novavax and Moderna and set stricter testing requirements for future vaccines.His most controversial move came when he ordered the halt of Sarepta Therapeutics’ gene therapy shipments for Duchenne muscular dystrophy after two teenage boys and a 51-year-old man died in cases deemed related to the medication. The decision met fierce resistance from families of patients and advocates for expanded access to experimental treatments, as well as criticism from political figures and editorial boards. The FDA later reversed the suspension, allowing shipments for younger patients to resume.A History of Outspoken CriticismBefore his government role, Prasad was an oncologist and epidemiologist at the University of California, San Francisco, where he gained a large following through Substack, YouTube, and other platforms. Known for sharp and sometimes expletive-laced critiques of public health policy, he frequently challenged the FDA’s pandemic-era decisions and called for greater scrutiny of medical products.His reinstatement underscores the influence Kennedy and Makary still hold within the Trump administration and signals that, despite political headwinds, Prasad’s hardline approach to drug and vaccine oversight will continue to shape U.S. healthcare policy.

fda vaccination chief vinay prasad returns to job within days after quitting under pressure, who is he?

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A new CDC-backed study has revealed a startling fact: nearly 9 out of 10 adults arriving in U.S. emergency departments aren’t fully vaccinated against the diseases recommended for their age and health status. These aren’t just patients with severe illnesses—many were seeking help for minor injuries or ailments, yet still carried major gaps in their immunization records.

For some, this is the only point of contact with the healthcare system. Roughly one-third of the U.S. population doesn’t have a primary care provider, meaning they miss out on the regular vaccine screenings typically offered during check-ups. Instead, they end up in the ER for urgent needs—often unaware that they’re overdue for potentially lifesaving shots.

Dr. Robert Rodriguez, lead researcher and associate dean at the University of California-Riverside School of Medicine, calls <span>vaccination</span> screening “one of the most fundamental public health interventions,” on par with water sanitation in terms of lives saved. Yet, without consistent access to primary care, millions of Americans never get screened.

Between April and December 2024, the study surveyed nearly 3,300 adults across 10 ERs in eight major U.S. cities. Patients were asked about their status on six to ten vaccines, including shingles, pneumococcal, RSV, tetanus, COVID-19, and influenza.

The results? Nearly half (49%) didn’t even know they were eligible for one or more of these vaccines. An even more concerning 86% hadn’t received all the shots they needed.

The <span>vaccination gap</span> wasn’t evenly distributed. Unvaccinated rates were higher among African Americans, uninsured individuals, and those without a primary care provider. These same populations often experience higher burdens of chronic disease, making the protection vaccines offer even more crucial.

Dr. Rodriguez points out that this is a symptom of deeper systemic problems—gaps in access, insurance coverage, and health education.

Despite the low vaccination rates, there’s a silver lining: about half of the unvaccinated patients said they’d be willing to get their recommended shots if they could receive them during their ER visit. That opens a door for a potential public health intervention hiding in plain sight.

If vaccine screening and delivery were built into emergency care, researchers estimate the percentage of fully vaccinated adult ER patients could jump from just 14% to as high as 48%—more than tripling current levels.

In most hospitals, emergency physicians and nurses focus on treating the acute problem—a broken bone, a high fever, a deep cut—before sending the patient home. Vaccinations rarely come into play unless it’s an immediate tetanus booster.

But the study suggests a paradigm shift: make the ER not just a place for crisis care, but also a checkpoint for preventive health. Even if the ER can’t stock every vaccine, staff could screen patients and connect them with pharmacies or community clinics that can provide the shots.

For people without regular healthcare access—including uninsured patients, homeless individuals, and recent immigrants—this could be their only realistic opportunity to catch up on vaccinations.

Many think of vaccines as a childhood necessity, but adults need ongoing protection too. The CDC recommends a range of vaccines to prevent illnesses that can cause serious complications, long-term health problems, and even death:

<ul><li>Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines reduce hospitalizations and deaths, especially in high-risk groups.</li><li>Shingles shots can prevent debilitating nerve pain and vision loss.</li><li>Pneumococcal vaccines protect against pneumonia, blood infections, and meningitis.</li><li>Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) boosters are essential to prevent life-threatening bacterial infections.</li><li>RSV shots are now available for older adults, who face higher risks of severe disease.</li></ul>

Falling behind on these vaccines doesn’t just put individuals at risk—it increases the chance of outbreaks that can affect entire communities.

Low vaccination coverage among ER patients isn’t just an individual health issue; it’s a population-level concern. Emergency rooms serve as a safety net for millions of underserved Americans, but if these patients remain unvaccinated, it leaves communities vulnerable to preventable disease surges.

Dr. Rodriguez emphasizes that this is a vaccine equity issue. “The ED is often the only healthcare access point for underserved populations,” he says. “We have the infrastructure to change this—if we choose to.”

Implementing vaccine screening in ERs would require coordination, training, and resources—but the potential payoff is massive. Even partial implementation could prevent thousands of hospitalizations, save millions in healthcare costs, and protect vulnerable groups during disease outbreaks.

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A new CDC-backed study has revealed a startling fact: nearly 9 out of 10 adults arriving in U.S. emergency departments aren’t fully vaccinated against the diseases recommended for their age and health status. These aren’t just patients with severe illnesses—many were seeking help for minor injuries or ailments, yet still carried major gaps in their immunization records.For some, this is the only point of contact with the healthcare system. Roughly one-third of the U.S. population doesn’t have a primary care provider, meaning they miss out on the regular vaccine screenings typically offered during check-ups. Instead, they end up in the ER for urgent needs—often unaware that they’re overdue for potentially lifesaving shots.Dr. Robert Rodriguez, lead researcher and associate dean at the University of California-Riverside School of Medicine, calls vaccination screening “one of the most fundamental public health interventions,” on par with water sanitation in terms of lives saved. Yet, without consistent access to primary care, millions of Americans never get screened.Between April and December 2024, the study surveyed nearly 3,300 adults across 10 ERs in eight major U.S. cities. Patients were asked about their status on six to ten vaccines, including shingles, pneumococcal, RSV, tetanus, COVID-19, and influenza.The results? Nearly half (49%) didn’t even know they were eligible for one or more of these vaccines. An even more concerning 86% hadn’t received all the shots they needed.The vaccination gap wasn’t evenly distributed. Unvaccinated rates were higher among African Americans, uninsured individuals, and those without a primary care provider. These same populations often experience higher burdens of chronic disease, making the protection vaccines offer even more crucial.Dr. Rodriguez points out that this is a symptom of deeper systemic problems—gaps in access, insurance coverage, and health education.Despite the low vaccination rates, there’s a silver lining: about half of the unvaccinated patients said they’d be willing to get their recommended shots if they could receive them during their ER visit. That opens a door for a potential public health intervention hiding in plain sight.If vaccine screening and delivery were built into emergency care, researchers estimate the percentage of fully vaccinated adult ER patients could jump from just 14% to as high as 48%—more than tripling current levels.In most hospitals, emergency physicians and nurses focus on treating the acute problem—a broken bone, a high fever, a deep cut—before sending the patient home. Vaccinations rarely come into play unless it’s an immediate tetanus booster.But the study suggests a paradigm shift: make the ER not just a place for crisis care, but also a checkpoint for preventive health. Even if the ER can’t stock every vaccine, staff could screen patients and connect them with pharmacies or community clinics that can provide the shots.For people without regular healthcare access—including uninsured patients, homeless individuals, and recent immigrants—this could be their only realistic opportunity to catch up on vaccinations.Many think of vaccines as a childhood necessity, but adults need ongoing protection too. The CDC recommends a range of vaccines to prevent illnesses that can cause serious complications, long-term health problems, and even death:Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines reduce hospitalizations and deaths, especially in high-risk groups.Shingles shots can prevent debilitating nerve pain and vision loss.Pneumococcal vaccines protect against pneumonia, blood infections, and meningitis.Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) boosters are essential to prevent life-threatening bacterial infections.RSV shots are now available for older adults, who face higher risks of severe disease.Falling behind on these vaccines doesn’t just put individuals at risk—it increases the chance of outbreaks that can affect entire communities.Low vaccination coverage among ER patients isn’t just an individual health issue; it’s a population-level concern. Emergency rooms serve as a safety net for millions of underserved Americans, but if these patients remain unvaccinated, it leaves communities vulnerable to preventable disease surges.Dr. Rodriguez emphasizes that this is a vaccine equity issue. “The ED is often the only healthcare access point for underserved populations,” he says. “We have the infrastructure to change this—if we choose to.”Implementing vaccine screening in ERs would require coordination, training, and resources—but the potential payoff is massive. Even partial implementation could prevent thousands of hospitalizations, save millions in healthcare costs, and protect vulnerable groups during disease outbreaks.

over 90% of er patients aren’t fully vaccinated—is the vaccination gap putting everyone at risk?

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