This is TED Health, a podcast from TED, and I'm your host, Dr. Shoshana Ungerleiter.

Today is the last episode in our vaccine mini-series.

Over the past few episodes, we've looked at how trust is built, why it breaks down,

and what we can do to navigate all the noise about vaccinations that's out there.

This final episode is all about moving forward, what it really means to make informed decisions

for ourselves, the people we love, and our communities.

Because in a world full of uncertainty, understanding the science and the human stories behind

it matters more than ever. Vaccines are among the most powerful tools in modern medicine, and also some of the most misunderstood.

Consider polio, a disease that once paralyzed millions of people worldwide, now stands

on the brink of global eradication thanks to decades of scientific progress and public health efforts.

But the fight isn't over yet.

In this TED-Ed lesson, we hear about the surprising and complex challenges

involved in eliminating a virus for good,

and what it really takes to protect entire populations. Because preventing disease isn't just

a personal decision. It's a collective responsibility. And at a time when vaccines are facing more

scrutiny than ever, it's crucial to remember just how much they've already saved us from.

Then stick around after the lesson for my interview with pediatric infectious disease physician,

former chair of the U.S. Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, and Vaccine Safety Expert, Dr. Grace Lee.

But before we dive in, a quick break to hear from our sponsors.

How did the dog sneak out?

When did that parcel vanish?

Who was outside last night?

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