Over the past five years, outbreaks of vaccine- preventable diseases have been on the rise, in New Jersey and across the country. Science confirms the safety, effectiveness and success of vaccines in protecting the health and wellness of children and adults. The New Jersey Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics (NJAAP) and its statewide pediatric membership have long championed efforts to protect children and their families from vaccine preventable disease. Targeted advocacy and educational initiatives, supported by the tireless efforts of pediatric Medical Homes from across the state, have and continue to work hand-in-hand to ensure immunization rates in New Jersey remain among the highest in the country. Additionally, The New Jersey Immunization Network (NJIN), a statewide Coalition founded by NJAAP and now co-led with the New Jersey Academy of Family Physicians (NJAFP), is the preeminent pro-vaccine for preventable diseases voice in the state. The mission of this coalition, comprised of over 400 members from both the public and private sectors, is to protect the health of all individuals through timely, age-appropriate immunization against vaccine-preventable diseases by educating the public, healthcare professionals, and policy makers about vaccine safety and benefits.
