Robert Bartgon

To All House Ways and Means Members, I urge you to oppose HB524! Herd immunity is vital in vaccination and to protecting the health of everyone in New Hampshire.. Vaccines must be available for people who cannot afford to pay for them. It is, therefore, essential that the New Hampshire Vaccine Association (NHVA) continue to exist and be funded so it can provide this essential service. Again, I urge you to oppose HB524! Herd immunity is important for the following reasons: 1. Protection of Vulnerable Populations: It shields those who cannot be vaccinated, such as individuals with certain medical conditions or infants. 2. Reduction of Disease Transmission: A high vaccination rate decreases the spread of pathogens, protecting both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals. 3. Controlling Outbreaks: Achieving herd immunity can help control or eradicate infectious diseases, reducing the incidence of outbreaks. 4. Protection of Healthcare Systems: By preventing disease outbreaks, herd immunity lightens the burden on healthcare facilities, especially during crises. 5. Economic Benefits: Reduced disease incidence lowers healthcare costs and minimizes productivity loss associated with illness. Collectively, vaccination efforts foster community-level immunity, ensuring broader protection against infectious diseases and this cannot be achieved without the ongoing efforts of the New Hampshire Vaccine Association. Please vote NO on HB524. Thank you, Bob Barton New London, NH