As immunization guidelines shift on the federal level, State Sen. Steve Santarsiero announced he will host a public webinar later this month.
The free event is titled “Vaccine Access: What You Need to Know” and is scheduled for March 31 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. via Zoom.
Members of the public are required to register in advance at senatorstevesantarsiero.com to receive the link.
The webinar will feature a panel of high-profile specialists, including:
Dr. Rob Bonacci, special advisor to Pennsylvania’s secretary of health.
Dr. Paul A. Offit, director of the Vaccine Education Center and professor of pediatrics at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
Dr. Stanley A. Plotkin, a prominent physician, researcher, and vaccine developer.
Dr. Chari A. Cohen, president of the Hepatitis B Foundation.
Kim Permar, executive director of the Bucks County Health Improvement Partnership.
Attendees can submit questions for the panelists both prior to and during the live session
Santarsiero said the online event is set to address vaccine access and combat what he described as widespread misinformation.
Panelists are expected to discuss the safety and accessibility of immunizations, as well as the specific measures Pennsylvania is taking to ensure residents maintain access to lifesaving shots.
The event comes after a recent legal victory for Pennsylvania and 14 other states. A federal judge in Massachusetts recently blocked changes to federal childhood vaccine recommendations that had been challenged by the multi-state coalition.
Santarsiero said the panel of medical and policy experts will provide evidence-based information to residents navigating the recent chaos in federal public health policy.
“Vaccines are one of the most effective tools we have to protect public health,” Santarsiero said. “At a time when misinformation about vaccines is widespread and even supported by federal officials, it’s critical that we connect residents with trusted experts who can provide clear, accurate information and answer questions directly.”
Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro’s administration joined with other states for vaccine policies as federal officials relax standards.
