Public health services (immunizations and control of contagious disease, sanitation, vector control, environmental health, etc.) are interrelated, and problems in one area may exacerbate problems in others. Increasing costs will challenge the budgets of governments, businesses and individuals.

To the extent that provision of public health services declines, associated public health risks will increase. This will put additional stress on the health care system, family budgets and absenteeism. The probability of these public health impacts occurring is uncertain, but impacts are serious if they occur. Putting resources into public health toward preventive care ultimately saves money for both society and individuals as later costs for medical health services decrease.

Contagious disease in particular may pose a specific risk to populations. These risks may occur for two reasons. First, the rate of immunizations may decline due to lower family incomes and loss of health coverage. The uninsured, low income, elderly and immigrant communities are likely to be most impacted. Second, people may be more susceptible to contagious diseases because of weakened immune systems due to physical and emotional stress.