Public Health & Vaccination - Vaccines significantly decreased illnesses in the 20th century, with a 99% to 100% reduction in the 21st century [2] - Misinformation on social media platforms undermines trust in vaccines, creating a battle for public opinion [6] - Distrust in public health institutions has grown due to COVID-19 policies, leading people to rely on unqualified sources for health advice [18][19] - The US may face vaccine-related conflicts between states, impacting travel and public health measures [12][13] - Public policy surrounding COVID-19 did not adapt quickly enough to evolving scientific understanding, leading to resentment towards experts [15][16] Political Landscape - Undermining public health can be politically risky, as seen with the impact of COVID-19 mismanagement on the 2020 election [7][8] - RFK Jr's views on vaccines have gained a following, influencing political dynamics and potentially impacting the 2024 election [11][12] - Republican senators are holding RFK Jr accountable due to the tricky territory of undermining public health [7] Information & Media - The way information is distributed has radically transformed, with local media collapsing and people relying on online sources [8][9][10] - Conspiracy theories and skepticism towards authority are amplified through social media [8] - People are increasingly questioning the ingredients in their food and seeking alternative health solutions [22] Health Trends - Americans are becoming sicker, which is contributing to the distrust in public health and the search for alternative solutions [16][22] - Chronic disease is a growing problem in America [14] - Measles, polio, and whooping cough remain dangerous, highlighting the importance of vaccination [25]