Pediatrician Odinaeva dispelled popular myths among anti-vaxxers.

      June 30, 2026 07:00 Society There are many myths surrounding vaccination that raise concerns among parents. Niso Odinaeva, the director of the Scientific Research Clinical Institute of Childhood, told 360.ru in an interview about the main risks for children posed by anti-vaccine advocates. According to the pediatrician, it is very difficult to convince skeptical parents of the necessity of vaccination, as there is a powerful anti-vaccine lobby. However, it is important to understand that from birth, a child encounters millions of antigens that stimulate their immune system, and they develop normally in the process.

      "The use of a vaccine is like training. It is not millions of antigens. It is administered against one, two, or four antigens. It is training to fight the pathogen, which will help the child not get sick later. Or, if they do get sick, they will not have the severe consequences that can occur if the vaccination is not done," Niso Odinaeva explained.

      Vaccine opponents often claim that there are currently no epidemics of measles or chickenpox. However, this does not mean that these diseases have disappeared. In the absence of vaccination, chickenpox can lead to serious complications, such as encephalitis, which can cause cerebral palsy or cardiovascular disorders. Refusing vaccinations deprives the child of protection against these and other dangerous diseases. For example, the lack of a mumps vaccine can lead to infertility. And the idea that vaccination causes autism is just a myth, unsubstantiated by any evidence.

      The expert explained that, as with food programming, exposure to antigens helps the body develop tolerance to them. This reduces the risk of developing atopic and infectious diseases. The expert emphasized that vaccination is an important step in ensuring the health and safety of the child. Parents should approach the issue of vaccinations consciously and not succumb to myths and fears.

      Earlier, residents of Nizhny Novgorod were informed about dangerous diseases that await children this autumn. Among them are acute respiratory viral infections, chickenpox, rubella, and enteroviral infections. NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" has channels on Telegram and MAX. Subscribe to stay updated on major events, exclusive materials, and timely information. Copyright © 1999—2025 NIA "Nizhny Novgorod". When reprinting, a hyperlink to NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" is mandatory. This resource may contain materials 18+