For decades, many clinicians in the United States rarely saw cases of measles or polio. Generation after generation of physicians trained and practiced in settings where these diseases were‘ out of sight.’ But absence of disease does not equal absence of risk. The risk has increased as vaccine hesitancy, misinformation, and gaps in immunization coverage have undermined herd immunity— the community shield that protects vulnerable people and keeps outbreaks limited.”
and clinician evaluation, through specimen collection and laboratory testing, to public health notification and outbreak control. Medical laboratory educational programs should include modules on VPDs, outbreak detection, and biosafety protocols. Workshops and case reviews strengthen skills and ensure that both new and experienced professionals are comfortable with rare but high-impact diagnoses.
Addressing Misinformation and Reinforcing Vaccination
Ultimately, preparedness also includes prevention. Laboratory and clinical professionals often serve as trusted voices in their communities. When physicians explain why vaccines protect not just individuals but entire communities, and when laboratorians articulate why detection matters, they help counter misinformation.
Effective diagnosis doesn’ t occur in a vacuum— it occurs in societies where understanding and trust are vital.
The Time Is Now
The resurgence of vaccine-preventable infections is not a distant possibility— it is happening now. Measles, pertussis, mumps, and the specter of polio remind us that infectious diseases evolve, populations change, and immunity is never static.
Physicians and laboratory professionals are central to our collective defense. Preparedness means sharpening clinical acumen, maintaining robust diagnostic capacity, reinforcing public health partnerships, and embracing education at every level.
The question isn’ t whether these diseases will return – it’ s whether we will be ready when they do. The answer depends on the choices we make today: in training, investment, communication, and commitment to vaccination and diagnosis. Under the microscope, preparedness is not just a goal – it’ s an imperative.
THE
EARLY BIRD CATCHES THE LOW RATES!
We look forward to welcoming you and your Sterile Processing friends at the HSPA Conference in Baltimore, April 25 – 28, 2026. Act now and take advantage of our biggest registration discounts for the can’ t-miss Sterile Processing event of the year.
Visit www. myhspa. org / 2026conference today!
Rodney E. Rohde, PhD, MS, SM( ASCP) CM, SVCM, MBCM, FACSc, is the Regents’ Professor, Texas State University System; University Distinguished Chair & Professor, Clinical Laboratory Science( CLS); TEDx speaker and global fellow – Global Citizenship Alliance; Texas State Honorary Professor of International Studies; associate director, Translational Health Research Initiative; past president, Texas Association for CLS. march-april 2026 • www. healthcarehygienemagazine. com • 13