In this week’s episode of Nourished with Dr. Anikó, Dr. Anikó concludes her powerful three-part vaccine series with an in-depth look at the devastating diseases vaccines were designed to prevent: polio, pertussis, and measles and why remembering their true impact is essential to protecting future generations.

With her signature blend of medical expertise and heartfelt storytelling, Dr. Anikó brings these illnesses to life through vivid history, global context, and real patient stories. From the paralyzing grip of polio that confined President FDR to a wheelchair, to the heartbreaking realities of whooping cough in infants, and the staggering global toll of measles, this episode exposes how far we’ve come and what’s at risk if we forget.

Dr. Anikó also shares a deeply personal story from her medical training that reshaped her own view on vaccine-preventable diseases, reminding listeners that even “common” childhood illnesses like chickenpox can lead to devastating complications.

You’ll learn why measles remains one of the most contagious and deadly diseases in the world, how vaccine refusal has led to dangerous resurgences, and why community protection, herd immunity, matters now more than ever.

If you’ve ever wondered how diseases like polio or measles could still threaten our modern world, or why vaccines are given at specific ages, this episode will shift your perspective and deepen your understanding of public health’s most important tool: preventative vaccines.

Episode Highlights:
02:00 Polio and President FDR’s story: how paralysis changed the world
05:00 The lasting effects of post-polio syndrome
08:00 The reality of pertussis (whooping cough) and why early treatment matters
12:00 Measles and the origins of vaccine misinformation
15:00 The truth about chickenpox and its hidden dangers
17:00 Measles’ staggering global death toll and why complacency is dangerous
20:00 Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis: delayed, fatal measles complication
23:00 The resurgence of measles and the cost of vaccine refusal
25:00 Understanding shared responsibility: how community immunity protects all

Through science, compassion, and perspective, Dr. Anikó reminds us that forgetting the lessons of history is one of the greatest risks to our collective health. Vaccines are not just about individual choice they’re about protecting those who can’t protect themselves.

Tune in now to learn, reflect, and remember what’s truly at stake when we choose not to vaccinate.

Connect with Dr. Anikó:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.aniko/

Website: https://www.draniko.com/

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Disclaimer:
The content of this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The views expressed are those of the host and guests and do not substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast.