Tool Brings Vax vs Disease Risk Into Stark Contrast

A new online tool called "What's the Risk?" has been launched to help individuals understand vaccine safety amid rising vaccine hesitancy and a surge in measles cases. Developed by the University of Minnesota's Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP) and Unbiased Science, the free tool transforms abstract vaccine risk statistics into visual comparisons, making it easier for users to grasp the risks posed by diseases that vaccines prevent.

Jess Steier, founder and CEO of Unbiased Science, explains that instead of merely stating that vaccine risks are low, the tool shows users the risks associated with the diseases themselves. The tool compares complications from diseases like measles and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) with the complications from their respective vaccines.

Izzy Brandstetter Figueroa, MPH, director of vaccine science communication at Unbiased Science, emphasizes that people face risks in everyday activities, such as driving and walking their dog, but these risks are often overlooked because they are perceived as small. The aim of the tool is to help people understand that even seemingly minor risks can be significant when compared to other common risks.

The collaboration between CIDRAP and Unbiased Science is focused on disseminating evidence-based vaccine information and helping people become better consumers of information. Kevin Griffis, director of media relations and public affairs at CIDRAP, notes that Unbiased Science excels at explaining complex scientific concepts in an accessible manner.

The tool aims to apply creativity in presenting scientific information, addressing the factors that contribute to vaccine hesitancy and guiding clinicians on how to discuss vaccines with their patients.

Available to the general public, public health leaders, and clinicians, "What's the Risk?" is designed to help navigate conversations about vaccines while minimizing the burden on healthcare providers, especially during acute encounters.