The Texas Vaccine Policy Symposium, hosted by Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy Nov. 15, will discuss the impact of vaccines in Texas and the challenges ahead as experts look toward the 89th Texas legislative session that starts in January.
Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to reduce the spread of disease and prevent deaths, preventing more than 4 million deaths worldwide each year, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, the politicization of vaccines has resulted in increased vaccine hesitancy in the U.S. and policies that exacerbate this issue, said Kirstin Matthews, fellow in science and technology policy at the Baker Institute and organizer of the event.
In addition to academic and industry experts, state Rep. Ann Johnson, D-Houston, will comment on major issues and challenges she anticipates in the legislative session. The event will highlight ways to uncouple vaccines from politics and how to effectively advocate for policies that can increase access to vaccines for those who need them most, organizers said.
This symposium is co-organized by the Baker Institute’s Center for Health and Biosciences and The Immunization Partnership with support from Rice’s Creative Ventures Fund.
What: 2024 Texas Vaccine Policy Symposium.
Who: Speakers will include vaccine scholar Dr. Saad Omer, dean of the Peter O’Donnell Jr. School of Public Health at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, who will discuss the impact of vaccines on public health and ways to improve access, and Michael Emerson, the Baker Institute’s Harry and Hazel Chavanne Fellow in Religion and Public Policy, who will discuss how vaccine advocacy should be an integral part of religious faith to help others who are less fortunate.
When: Friday, Nov. 15, 8:30-11:30 a.m.
Where: Rice’s Baker Hall. This event is free and open to the public, but registration is required. In-person registration is available here, and livestream registration is available here.