Now More Than Ever, Vaccines Are a Vital Public Health Tool
Our new vaccines education program separates fact from fiction
Feb 24, 2021
Dec 23, 2021
Created With Support
Beth Battaglino, RN-C, CEO of HealthyWomen
Beth brings a unique combination of sharp business expertise and women's health insight to her leadership of the organization. Beth has worked in the health care industry for more than 25 years helping to define and drive public education programs on a broad range of women's health issues. She launched and has expanded the HealthyWomen.org brand. As a result of her leadership, HealthyWomen was recognized as one of the top 100 women's health web sites by Forbes for three consecutive years, and was recognized by Oprah magazine as one of the top women's health web sites. HealthyWomen now connects to millions of women across the country through its wide program distribution and innovative use of technology.
Beth is responsible for the business development and strategic positioning of HealthyWomen. She creates partnerships with key health care professionals and consumer groups to provide strategic, engaging and informative award-winning programs. She serves as the organization's chief spokesperson, regularly participating in corporate, non-profit, community and media events. She also is a practicing nurse in maternal child health at Riverview Medical Center- Hackensack Meridian Health, in Red Bank, NJ.
In addition to her nursing degree, Beth holds degrees in political science, business and public administration from Marymount University.
To stay sane, she loves to run and compete in road races. She enjoys skiing and sailing with her husband and young son, and welcoming new babies into the world.
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Medically Reviewed
On a cold January afternoon, I received my first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. It was a day I won't soon forget. As a practicing nurse, mom and CEO of HealthyWomen (which focuses on keeping women healthy!), I know firsthand how important it is to protect those around me — from my family and friends to patients and colleagues — and to set an example in my community.
I also know that vaccines are a critical public health tool that keep dangerous diseases in check. But how well they work depends on how many people receive them. In the U.S., socioeconomic and racial disparities and lack of access to care have created an uneven landscape of vaccine uptake. Despite their importance, vaccines aren't readily available to — or readily accepted by — everyone. And, with endless information out there, it can be difficult to get just the facts.
That's why I'm so excited that we've launched our in-depth vaccine education series. We talk to an immune specialist about how vaccines work, why it's important to get all doses of a vaccine, herd immunity and more. We also uncover myths and facts and share what you need to know about adult vaccines and boosters.
It's no secret that vaccines aren't always easy to access and pay for — especially when you have no health insurance or when coverage falls short. HealthyWomen's senior policy advisor, Martha Nolan, offers insight on how to prioritize your vaccines and where to find affordable ones. And health journalist Alex Fulton writes about common concerns of vaccine-hesitant people.
It was also important that we share common concerns among those who are vaccine hesitant. In her essay, "I Was An Anti-Vaxxer: Here's What Changed My Mind," Kristen O'Meara explains, "If we treat people questioning vaccine safety with empathy, it could make a world of difference."
I hope that we answer your questions, help you learn something new and inspire you to take action.
Be safe and well,
Beth
This resource was created with support from Merck and Pfizer.
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