Tag: Vaccination

How Childhood Vaccination is Helping to Achieve Health Equity

Between 2009 and 2014, the United States saw the percentage of children aged 19 to 35 months who received the combined seven-vaccine series increase from 44.3% to 71.6%.

Everyone should be given the same chance to achieve and maintain the highest level of health. However, some disparities exist among different demographics. Status, race, ethnicity, gender, age, and disability significantly influence health outcomes. This can lead to marginalized groups being overlooked or underserved. Health professionals deal with this issue by bridging the gap with vaccinations, especially in children.

According to the National Institute for Children’s Health Quality, between 2009 and 2014, the United States saw the percentage of children aged 19 to 35 months who received the combined seven-vaccine series increase from 44.3% to 71.6%. The study found that this increase was not confined to specific demographics but cut across income levels, ethnicities, and geographical regions.

One key takeaway from this data is the power of targeted interventions and proactive outreach. Recognizing the diverse needs of different communities, healthcare professionals have implemented different strategies to engage families and address vaccination concerns. Culturally sensitive approaches, language access programs, and community partnerships have played an essential role in creating trust and enhancing vaccine uptake among historically underserved populations.

Vaccination has been and will always be a cornerstone of public health, especially in children, as it prevents the spread of infectious diseases, protects vulnerable populations, and ultimately saves lives. The significance of childhood vaccination cannot be overstated. Childhood vaccination is not only about safeguarding individual children; it’s also about promoting the health and well-being of entire communities. It’s a vital tool in our collective efforts to ensure that every child, no matter their demographic, has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.

Even though vaccinations are important Health equity extends beyond that and encompasses a comprehensive approach that addresses various factors influencing health outcomes. This includes equitable access to healthcare services, nutritious food, clean water, safe housing, education, and economic opportunities. By finding ways to help those experiencing social determinants of health, such as poverty, discrimination, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure, we can create an environment where not only children but everyone has a chance to be happy and healthy.

Achieving health equity is not a one-time achievement but an ongoing commitment that requires everyone’s sustained effort, collaboration, and dedication. By promoting equitable access to healthcare for all individuals, we can create a future where everyone has the opportunity to attain their highest level of health and well-being. Health equity is not just a goal that needs to be achieved; it’s a fundamental human right that must be upheld for everyone.

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Sources:

National Institute for Children’s Health Quality: What Health Equity Efforts Can Learn from Immunization Initiatives

World Health Organization: Health equity

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: What is Health Equity?

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Childhood Immunization as a Tool to Address Health Disparities

Combating Myths: The Critical Fight Against Vaccine Hesitancy and Measles Outbreaks

Vaccine hesitancy has become a growing concern worldwide, with a noticeable impact on public health. As more parents succumb to misinformation and baseless claims about the dangers of childhood vaccines, we are witnessing a distressing rise in preventable diseases, particularly measles outbreaks.

The Rise of Vaccine Hesitancy

Vaccine hesitancy refers to the delay in acceptance or refusal of vaccines despite the availability of vaccination services. This phenomenon is not new, but it has gained momentum in recent years, fueled by misinformation spread through social media and specific groups claiming vaccines cause more harm than good. Despite overwhelming scientific evidence to the contrary, these claims have led too many parents to make decisions that endanger not only their children’s health but also public health at large.

The Impact on Measles Outbreaks

Measles is a highly contagious disease that can lead to severe health complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and death. The disease had been primarily controlled in many parts of the world thanks to widespread vaccination efforts. However, the growing vaccine hesitancy has led to declining vaccination rates, falling below the threshold needed to maintain herd immunity. As a result, we have seen a resurgence of measles outbreaks in various countries, affecting populations that were once protected.

The Dangers of Misinformation

The heart of the vaccine hesitancy problem lies in the spread of misinformation. Bogus claims, such as the debunked theory linking vaccines to autism, continue to circulate and find new audiences. This misinformation not only undermines the efforts of health professionals but also erodes public trust in one of the most effective tools we have for preventing disease. It is crucial to address and correct this misinformation, ensuring that parents and guardians have access to reliable, evidence-based information about the safety and efficacy of vaccines.

The Role of Public Health Initiatives

Combating vaccine hesitancy requires a concerted effort from public health officials, healthcare providers, and the media. Public health campaigns must actively reach out to hesitant parents, using clear, accessible, and persuasive messaging. Healthcare providers also play a critical role in this effort, as they are often the most trusted source of information for parents. By engaging in open, empathetic conversations with parents about their concerns, healthcare providers can help dispel myths and encourage vaccination.

The rise in vaccine hesitancy and the consequent measles outbreaks represent a significant public health challenge. It is a reminder of the importance of vaccination and the need to combat misinformation vigorously. As a society, we must prioritize the health and well-being of all individuals, particularly the most vulnerable among us. By doing so, we can ensure that diseases like measles remain a thing of the past rather than a recurring threat.

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  • Vaccine hesitancy: The WHO describes vaccine hesitancy as a growing challenge for immunization programs worldwide, highlighting its complex nature and the variety of factors that contribute to it, such as misinformation, complacency, convenience, and confidence. Effective communication and tailored strategies are emphasized as key to improving vaccine acceptance​.
  • Vaccines and immunization: This section provides an overview of immunization’s role as a global health success story, noting that vaccines prevent 3.5–5 million deaths every year from diseases such as diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, influenza, and measles. It also mentions the Immunization Agenda 2030, which aims to improve global vaccination coverage and ensure that everyone benefits from vaccines for good health and well-being​.

Combatting Vaccine Fatigue: The Critical Role of Continued Immunizations

CDC data shows a drop from 173 million flu vaccinations in 2022 to just 155 million in 2023.

From COVID-19 to an intense flu season, there’s no doubt people are experiencing vaccine fatigue. Numbers provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show in 2022, 173 million Americans received flu vaccinations. This number recently dipped to 155 million in 2023. This decline in immunization is a national concern as pockets of outbreaks can happen, like most recently with measles. Understandably, people have felt exhausted in the past few years following the pandemic. However, it’s essential to understand why keeping up-to-date with your vaccines and new developments benefits your health.

Vaccine fatigue refers to the weariness and disillusionment individuals may experience regarding vaccines, particularly in prolonged or repeated vaccination campaigns. Recognizing that vaccine-preventable diseases extend far beyond a singular threat is essential. Diseases such as measles, polio, influenza, and HPV remain significant public health concerns, with vaccines helping to reduce their prevention. Vaccine fatigue can pose a threat to our public health as it can allow for pockets of these infections to spread, leaving the vulnerable populations exposed the most.

Continued immunization is also important for training the immune system to recognize and combat specific pathogens, such as viruses or bacteria. If you skip or avoid getting vaccinated, your immunity to certain diseases can wane, leaving you a target for getting sick. Maintaining a vaccine schedule also helps obtain herd immunity and protect young children from being immunocompromised. According to the CDC, 9 out of 10 people hospitalized with flu had at least one underlying health condition. This statistic reinforces the importance of making sure you’re thinking about not only your health but also the health of those around you.

There are a variety of strategies you can adopt to overcome vaccine fatigue. The latest vaccine information is from reliable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO) or the CDC. You can also discuss any concerns about certain vaccines with your healthcare provider and learn more about their benefits and risks. Talking with friends and family, especially about vaccine fatigue, can alleviate isolation and reinforce your commitment to staying aware of sickness in your community.

Addressing vaccine fatigue requires a multifaceted approach that acknowledges the complex interplay of social, cultural, and economic factors influencing vaccination decisions. Education and understanding the benefits of vaccination may seem like a daunting task you can quickly get tired of. However, understanding the underlying factors contributing to fatigue will create a healthier community and prevent diseases.

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Sources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Vaccines & Immunizations

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Vaccine Effectiveness: How Well Do Flu Vaccines Work

National Library of Medicine: Mind the “Vaccine Fatigue”

Protecting Children Against the Tripledemic Through Vaccination

We still have a way to go before the winter season ends, but there seems to be no end in sight to this cold and flu season. This year has been especially hard on families with RSV, COVID-19, and the flu, accompanied by the common cold, creating a perfect storm of illnesses. Three pediatric influenza-related deaths in Tennessee have been reported since the flu season began in October. According to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there have been 65 influenza-related pediatric deaths so far in the 2023–2024 flu season. This flu season has taken a toll on children, prompting a closer look at the importance of vaccination.

Getting Vaccinated:

Data collected by the CDC on last year’s flu season showed that 90% of the children who died were not fully vaccinated. Vaccines are our best means of fighting off severe flu complications. Children over six months must receive their vaccination during complicated influenza seasons like the one we see. Even if you have infants too young to be vaccinated, parents and caregivers can receive a vaccine, so there is a protection barrier between you and your child.

Recognizing the Different Illnesses:

With various respiratory illnesses circulating simultaneously, distinguishing RSV, the flu, and COVID-19, can be challenging. RSV commonly presents with respiratory distress, wheezing, and fever, primarily affecting infants and young children. The flu typically brings on a fever, cough, and body aches. COVID-19 symptoms in children may include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, although they might be milder than in adults. The CDC has a list of symptoms you can review to help you distinguish between these illnesses and help mitigate the spread of contagious illnesses.

For infants and toddlers, recognizing flu symptoms can be trickier. Some signs your infant may be sick include trouble feeding or sleeping and changes in behavior. Severe symptoms that require immediate medical attention include a high fever persisting for days, trouble breathing, chest pain, signs of dehydration, severe headache, and continuous vomiting.

When to Get Vaccinated:

While getting vaccinated before the peak of the flu season is generally recommended, it’s never too late. The respiratory virus season can extend into March or even later. Additionally, COVID-19 vaccinations are available throughout the year, and vaccination against respiratory infections like RSV is beneficial regardless of the specific month. The effectiveness of vaccination can vary, but receiving the vaccine later in the season still provides valuable protection against severe illness, complications, and transmission of these viruses.

Steps to Ensure Everyone is Protected:

In addition to vaccination, adopting good health habits such as avoiding close contact with sick individuals, staying home when sick, covering coughs and sneezes, frequent handwashing, and avoiding touching the face can help prevent the spread of germs. Creating a routine around these preventive actions can help slow the spread of germs that can cause different illnesses. Adding this with vaccination can increase your chances of getting through this season happy and healthy.

With this tripledemic affecting the community, especially in Tennessee, protecting the youth from illness takes center stage. Vaccination significantly reduces the severity and impact of this cold and flu season. But it’s not the only measure to take. Parents and caregivers should also implement preventive measures and recognize early signs of symptoms to ensure children receive medical attention when needed.

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Sources:

National Library of Medicine: Spatiotemporal variations of “triple-demic” outbreaks of respiratory infections in the United States in the post-COVID-19 era

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Protect yourself and others from Flu, COVID-19, and RSV

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Pediatric Flu Deaths Top 100 this Season; Most Unvaccinated

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Weekly U.S. Influenza Surveillance Report

Tennessee Influenza Report

Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy and Exploring Advancements in Vaccine Development

There are multiple challenges the world faces when it comes to health. They can range from outbreaks of preventable diseases to a lack of physical activity. But in recent years, vaccine hesitancy has emerged as one of the healthcare system’s biggest challenges. An assessment by the National Library of Medicine found that 6% to 25% of parents may be vaccine-hesitant. Despite the success of vaccines in preventing illness and saving lives, some individuals are still on the fence about vaccines.

Vaccine hesitancy is a complex phenomenon that encompasses a variety of factors. Misinformation and mistrust in the medical establishment play a role along with the rise of social media, allowing for the ability to spread accurate information and falsehoods. Conspiracy theories and misleading narratives can gain traction quickly and create doubt in those who might otherwise choose to vaccinate.

It’s understandable for people to have their concerns but it’s important to remember that vaccines have been instrumental in preventing and controlling infectious diseases, saving millions of lives globally. The technology used to create vaccines has seen significant advancements, allowing for better and safer development.

Traditional vs. Modern Vaccine Technologies:

There are several approaches when it comes to developing a vaccine, including inactivated or attenuated pathogens. While traditional methods remain effective, modern vaccine technologies offer distinct advantages. One of these is recombinant DNA technology, where specific genes from the pathogen are inserted into a harmless virus or bacterium, stimulating an immune response without causing illness. This approach allows for the targeted design of vaccines with improved safety profiles.

Additionally, mRNA vaccines represent a groundbreaking development in vaccine technology. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the potential of mRNA vaccines, such as the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines. Unlike traditional vaccines that use weakened or inactivated pathogens, mRNA vaccines teach cells to produce a harmless piece of the virus (spike protein) to trigger an immune response. This allowed for faster vaccine development and production.

Innovative Vaccine Development:

DNA vaccines are rapidly developing and creating a promising future for vaccines. Instead of using proteins or inactivated viruses, DNA vaccines introduce a small piece of DNA into cells that allows it to produce a viral or bacterial protein. This stimulates an immune response, like traditional vaccines.

Another safe and highly effective method of vaccine development is VLP vaccines. This mimics the structure of viruses without containing genetic material. These vaccines help the body build an immune response by presenting it with a virus-like structure, training the immune system to recognize and fight the actual virus. VLP technology has successfully developed vaccines for hepatitis B and human papillomavirus (HPV).

A vaccine that constantly needs to be reformulated each year is the seasonal influenza vaccine. Scientists develop new vaccines each season so that they align with the currently circulating virus strains. Researchers are working on developing universal influenza vaccines to eliminate the need for yearly updates.

Debunking Myths Surrounding Vaccine Safety:

Despite innovative and technological advances in vaccines, there remain many myths and misinformation about vaccines that are helping to fuel hesitancy.

One of the well-known and debunked myths is the link between vaccines and autism. This mainly surrounds the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine, vaccines that contain thimerosal, or too many vaccines. Numerous studies have thoroughly investigated this claim and found no credible evidence supporting a connection between vaccines and the development of autism. The original study suggesting a link has been discredited and retracted, meaning that the paper isn’t part of the scientific record because it was found to be based on scientific misconduct.

Another common misconception is that vaccines contain harmful substances that can cause adverse reactions. Any vaccine can cause side effects, however, most of these symptoms are minor such as a sore arm or low-grade fever. Vaccines undergo meticulous tests for safety, and any ingredients used are thoroughly evaluated. Common vaccine components include weakened or inactivated viruses, proteins, adjuvants (which enhance the body’s immune response), and preservatives. The amounts of these ingredients are well below established safety thresholds, and their inclusion is essential for ensuring vaccine efficacy and stability.

Overall, the way to tackle vaccine hesitancy is through education and research. it is crucial to recognize the impact that vaccines have had on preventing and controlling infectious diseases not only in the United States but around the world. Recognizing myths and misinformation, as well as looking at the proven track record of success and the continued advancements of vaccine technologies, will help build confidence and reduce hesitancy.

Sources

National Library of Medicine: State of Vaccine Hesitancy in the United States

National Library of Medicine: The MMR vaccine and autism: Sensation, refutation, retraction, and fraud

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: How Vaccines are Developed and Approved for Use

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Possible Side Effects from Vaccines

The Significance of the Measles Vaccination for Children in Times of Resurgence

In the United States, there continue to be small outbreaks of the measles virus dispute the vaccine being readily available. Once on the brink of elimination, measles has made a comeback, posing a significant threat to children.

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection with symptoms resembling a common cold — fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. A rash can occur that starts on the face and spreads across the body. Contracting measles in the U.S. results in hospitalization for approximately 1 in 5 individuals, and 1 to 3 out of 1,000 people with measles may die of the disease, even with the best medical attention.

According to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 48 cases of measles were reported by 20 jurisdictions. This number is lower than in previous years, but it’s concerning to see outbreaks occurring considering in the 2000s the disease was declared eliminated. Several factors contribute to this reintroduction, including international travel and reduced childhood vaccinations.

Vaccination remains the most effective way to combat the measles. Children should receive two doses of MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine, with the first dose starting between 12 and 15 months. The second dose should be administered to those 4 to 6 years old. The second dose can be given earlier just if it is 28 days after the first dose.

A single dose of the MMR vaccine is 93% effective against measles, 78% effective against mumps, and 97% effective against rubella. Two doses of MMR vaccine are 97% effective against measles and 88% effective against mumps. People receiving their MMR vaccinations are usually considered protected for life against measles and rubella.

One of the most significant challenges with this disease is a delay in accepting the vaccine. The controversy surrounding the link between the MMR vaccine and autism has been thoroughly investigated and debunked by extensive reports from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the National Academy of Medicine, and the CDC. These organizations have found that autism is often identified in those between 18 and 30 months of age, which is around the same time children are given their first MMR vaccine.

The recent resurgence of measles in the United States is a stark reminder of the importance of vaccination. This disease remains one of the leading causes of death among young children globally. While the risk of measles in the U.S. is low, if vaccination rates continue to decline the country could see larger pockets of outbreaks across different jurisdictions. By prioritizing vaccination, we can prevent this disease from spreading further and return to the conditions of the early 2000s when measles was successfully eradicated in the U.S.

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Sources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Measles (Rubeola)

Mayo Clinic: Measles

American Academy of Pediatrics: Vaccines — Autism Toolkit

National Academy of Medicine: Vaccines do not cause Autism

World Health Organization: Measles

Getting the HPV Vaccine During Cervical Cancer Awareness Month

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month (CCAM) and it’s an opportunity to raise awareness about the prevention and early intervention of one of the most common and preventable cancers in women.

Cervical cancer develops slowly over time and starts in the cells of the cervix. The cervix connects the upper part of the uterus and anyone with a cervix can develop cervical cancer. Most cases of cervical cancer are caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection, and while most infections clear on their own, persistent infections can lead to cervical cancer over time. The body’s immune system typically prevents HPV from doing any harm, however, in a small percentage of people, the virus survives for years and contributes to the process that causes some cervical cells to become cancer cells.

In 2020, 11,542 new cases of cervical cancer were reported among women in the United States, and 4,272 women died of this cancer. Every day in Tennessee, a woman is diagnosed with cervical cancer, and every three days one dies from the disease. Globally, cervical cancer is in the top ten most common cancers in women, with 604,000 new cases recorded in 2020. About 90% of the 342,000 deaths caused by cervical cancer occurred in low- and middle-income countries.

Risk Factors:

Other risk factors can contribute to the development of cervical cancer, which include:

● HPV Infection: HPV is the primary cause of cervical cancer and is responsible for over 90% of diagnoses.

● Smoking: Tobacco use has been linked to an increased risk of cervical cancer.

● Long-term Use of Oral Contraceptives: Prolonged use of certain birth control pills may contribute to the risk.

Prevention:

While there is no guarantee to prevent cervical cancer, maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, routine screenings, and the HPV vaccine all help to reduce the risk. The Center for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends beginning the HPV vaccine series as low as the age of 9 with the possibility of continuing from age 27 to 45.

Women should also seek screening for cervical cancer every 5–10 years starting at age 30. Screening includes cervical cytology (also called the Pap test or Pap smear) and testing for human papillomavirus (HPV). Getting routinely checked has been known to save lives, with the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologistssaying the number of cervical cancer cases and deaths has decreased by one-half over the past 30 years.

Symptoms and Treatment:

Cervical cancer may not cause noticeable signs and symptoms in its early stages, which is why regular screening is important for early detection. As the cancer progresses, symptoms may become more apparent. Some common symptoms of cervical cancer include:

● Abnormal vaginal bleeding

● Pelvic pain

● Vaginal discharge

● Pain during urination

● Back pain or leg swelling

● Weight loss, fatigue, and loss of appetite

If cervical cancer develops, it’s often treated with surgery to remove the cancer. Other treatments can include chemotherapy or targeted therapy medicines to kill the cancer cells. Radiation therapy is also used along with low-dose chemotherapy.

A Global Call to Action:

The World Health Organization (WHO) has set out a global strategy to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem by 2120. To guide countries towards achieving this goal by 2030, three specific targets have been established:

● 90% of girls vaccinated with the HPV vaccine by age 15.

● 70% of women screened with a high-quality test by ages 35 and 45.

● 90% of women with cervical disease receiving treatment.

By achieving this goal, the WHO estimates that 74 million new cases of cervical cancer can be averted, and 62 million deaths can be avoided.

Cervical Cancer Awareness Month is a time to raise awareness about cervical cancer and get informed, get screened, and get vaccinated. Committing to this is not just a matter of health; it’s also a human right. Participating in Cervical Cancer Awareness Month contributes to the global effort to eradicate preventable diseases and promote a healthier, more equitable world.

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Sources:

World Health Organization: Cervical Cancer Awareness Month 2023

Tenessee Health Department: Cervical Cancer Information and Screening Guidelines

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Cancer Statistics At a Glance

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Cervical Cancer

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Cervical Cancer Screening

The Importance of Keeping Children’s Vaccination Records Up-to-Date

A parent’s primary concern is the health and well-being of their children. There are many factors to ensuring our children are safe especially when they are young and developing. One crucial aspect of this is keeping children’s vaccination records current. Vaccines help to prevent common diseases that can seriously harm or even kill infants, children, and adults. If children are not vaccinated, they run the risk of becoming seriously ill or even dying from diseases such as measles and whooping cough. Maintaining accurate vaccination records can be challenging, but there are practical tips on how to stay organized and ensure you are on top of your child’s health.

Vaccine records are comprehensive documentation of the vaccines your child has received. These records help keep track of vaccines received and provide your healthcare provider with your child’s immunization history. These records are essential for various reasons. There are schools and childcare facilities that require up-to-date vaccination records for enrollment. If you are traveling, some destinations may have specific vaccination requirements due to region-specific diseases. Finally, vaccine documentation is important in case of a medical emergency. This information enables healthcare providers to quickly assess a child’s immunization history to determine the most appropriate course of action.

The vaccination process starts just a few months after a child’s birth and extends into their adolescence. Here is a general timeframe of vaccines children need:

Birth to 2 Months:

This stage is the most important to start building a strong immune system for your child. infants typically receive the Hepatitis B vaccine shortly after birth. Other vaccines, such as the DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis), Hib (Haemophilus influenza type b), IPV (inactivated poliovirus), and PCV13 (pneumococcal conjugate) vaccines, are administered at two months of age.

4 to 6 Months:

From four to six months of age, booster shots are given out for the vaccines taken at two months. This ensures infants have ongoing protection against the diseases listed above. The Rotavirus vaccine, designed to prevent severe diarrhea caused by the Rotavirus, is also administered during this period.

6 to 18 Months:

Around six months, the third dose of the Hepatitis B vaccine is given, completing that series. At this stage, children also receive the third dose of the DTaP, Hib, IPV, PCV13, and Rotavirus vaccines. At this age, the annual seasonal influenza vaccine is also recommended.

12 to 15 Months:

Children usually receive the first dose of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) and the Varicella (chickenpox) vaccines between their first and second birthdays. These vaccines provide immunity against highly contagious diseases, preventing severe complications.

18 to 24 Months:

The final doses of the DTaP, Hib, IPV, and PCV13 vaccines are administered during this timeframe. The Hepatitis A vaccine is also recommended, given in two doses at least six months apart.

4 to 6 Years:

Between four and six years of age, children receive booster doses of the DTaP, MMR, and Varicella vaccines. Additionally, the fourth dose of the IPV vaccine is administered, completing the primary series.

Adolescence:

As children enter adolescence, certain vaccinations may require booster shots or additional doses. The Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) vaccine is typically given at age 11 or 12, followed by a Td (tetanus and diphtheria) booster every ten years thereafter. The HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine is recommended for both boys and girls around the same age to prevent certain types of cancers.

Understanding the timeframe and tracking when children need to get vaccinated is important to making informed decisions.

To keep track of their schedule you can create your record system. You can develop a dedicated folder whether it is a physical or digital folder for your child’s vaccination records. This will serve as a centralized and easily accessible location for all related documents. You can ensure the accuracy of your records by including important details such as the vaccine name, date of administration, administering healthcare provider, and the lot number. You can also set reminders for yourself, such as an alert on your phone or using a calendar app to stay informed about upcoming vaccinations and booster shots.

There are further steps you can take to ensure you are ready and organized, such as requesting copies of updated vaccination records from healthcare providers after each administration. You can also stay well-informed about the recommended vaccination schedule for your child’s specific age by referring to guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The organization provides an in-depth schedule that has the recommended vaccine for different stages of your child’s life.

While all these steps are important to maintaining the records of your child’s vaccination, it’s also important to discuss with your healthcare provider about questions you may have about vaccines. In the age of information, it’s crucial to approach vaccine-related content on the Internet with caution and to always ask a professional before making a final decision. It’s important to understand that extensive lab testing is done before a new vaccine is given to people. Even when testing is completed, it can still take years before clinical studies are complete and the vaccine is licensed.

After a vaccine is licensed, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), CDC, National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other federal agencies continue routine monitoring and investigate any potential safety concerns.

By staying organized and maintaining accurate up-to-date vaccination records for your child, you can ensure your children are safe, especially during the developing stage of life. Regularly updating these records is a simple and effective way to protect your child and those around them from preventable diseases. Prioritize this task, and you’ll be laying a strong foundation for your child’s healthy and happy life.

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Sources:

Centers for Disease Control and Preventions: Vaccine Schedule

National Library of Medicine: Immunization in the United States: Recommendations, Barriers, and Measures to Improve Compliance

Standford Medicine Children’s Health: Why Childhood Immunizations Are Important

The Role Vaccines Have Played in Disease Prevention and Safeguarded Our Communities

For over 200 years, vaccinations have been a cornerstone of public health. They play an important role in helping prevent the spread of dangerous and infectious diseases and have made a significant impact on global health, preventing an estimated 3.5–5 million deaths each year globally.

Vaccines target various diseases, such as influenza, RSV, Covid-19, whopping cough, rotavirus, polio, etc. Vaccines have even helped ultimately eradicate some diseases like smallpox. In 1980, the World Health Assembly declared smallpox eliminated, and there have been no cases of naturally occurring smallpox since. The success of the smallpox vaccine shows how immunization saves lives globally.

While still around, polio is another devastating disease that has seen a dramatic decline thanks to vaccine campaigns. When polio infects an individual, approximately one out of every 200 cases result in permanent paralysis. Of those, 5–10% succumb to the condition when their respiratory muscles become paralyzed. Polio primarily impacts children below the age of 5.

While most people know about vaccines from the annual flu campaigns, vaccines can prevent a broader spectrum of diseases. Childhood immunizations help shield against diseases such as measles, mumps, and rubella and protect against deadly diseases like hepatitis, tetanus, and diphtheria.

However, recently, there has been a decline in children getting vaccines. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, During the 2022–23 school year, nationwide vaccination coverage among kindergarten children remained around 93% for MMR, DTaP, polio, and VAR, similar to that in the 2021–22 school year, lower than the 94% coverage in the 2020–21 school year, and lower still than the 95% coverage during the 2019–20 school year. These new statistics have health officials concerned that we will see more outbreaks of diseases that were recently eliminated from the United States.

The CDC recommends routine vaccination against 14 diseases for children before they turn 2 years old.

Vaccine hesitancy plays a role in this decline. Misinformation, distrust in healthcare systems, and fear of side effects contribute to hesitancy among certain populations. It’s important to consult a healthcare professional to dispel myths and provide evidence-based information to address individual concerns.

It’s also important to note that significant advancements in vaccine technology offer a new era of precision and effectiveness. Traditional vaccines often use weakened or inactivated forms of pathogens to stimulate an immune response. Modern vaccine technologies, such as mRNA vaccines, represent a groundbreaking approach that uses the body’s cellular machinery to produce viral proteins, triggering a strong immune response.

The COVID-19 pandemic is an example of the quick and effectiveness of the vaccine development system. Vaccines like the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines were developed with unprecedented speed and showcased the potential of innovative technologies to respond to emerging threats.

Vaccinations have proven to be one of the most effective tools in safeguarding public health, preventing the spread of infectious diseases, and helping to save lives. Historical success, innovations in vaccine technology, and efforts to address vaccine hesitancy collectively contribute to the overarching goal of creating a world where preventable diseases are rare. By understanding diseases and how vaccines can help reduce their risk, we can build a healthier and more resilient community, protecting ourselves and future generations from the devastating impact of infectious diseases.

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Sources:

Research Gate: History of Vaccines and Immunization. Cornerstone of public health for 200 years that saved millions of human lives

World Health Organization: Poliomyelitis

World Health Organization: Vaccines and Immunizations

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Immunization

Center for Disease Control and Prevention: Smallpox

Center for Disease Control and Prevention: Coverage with Selected Vaccines and Exemption from School Vaccine Requirements Among Children in Kindergarten — United States, 2022–23 School Year

Embrace the New Year By Prioritizing the Health and Well-being of Our Children

It’s time to celebrate the arrival of another new year! As 2023 comes to an end, 2024 brings new starts and ambitions. Many people will kick start the new year with a resolution, with most choosing to prioritize their families’ health and well-being. But you don’t need to wait until midnight to focus on healthier choices. With the influenza season in full swing, one of the most effective ways to ensure your family remains free of illness is through vaccination.

Keeping up with vaccinations has been essential in preventing and controlling infectious diseases for decades. They are a cornerstone of public health efforts, contributing to the overall well-being of communities.

Unfortunately, according to the CDC, flu vaccination coverage for all children six months to 17 years of age is 3.6 percentage points lower than last season (43.3% compared with 46.9%). For pregnant women aged 18 to 49, Overall coverage at the end of November 2023 (33.8%) is 2.2 percentage points lower compared with coverage at the end of November 2022 (36.0%).

This lower coverage leaves children vulnerable and susceptible to risks from seasonal flu and its potentially serious complications. As we enter the new year, ensure that your children are up-to-date on their vaccinations so you can avoid serious outcomes, including pneumonia.

It’s easy to stay up-to-date with your child’s vaccinations. All you have to do is consult a healthcare provider who will offer guidance on when children should receive specific vaccines. Health Hero Tennessee partners with organizations to establish community clinics and create tailored onsite clinic immunization programs that can scale according to needs.

Discussing vaccination with a healthcare provider can also help alleviate any hesitancy. Parents and caregivers need to seek information from reliable sources and engage in open conversations with healthcare professionals. Dispelling myths and addressing concerns can contribute to a better understanding of the importance of vaccinations in safeguarding children’s health.

Vaccinations not only protect those who received a shot but also create a barrier that contributes to community immunity. By achieving high vaccination rates, we create a barrier that limits the spread of infectious diseases, protecting those unable to receive vaccines due to age or medical reasons.

The science of vaccine development continues to evolve, with ongoing research aimed at improving and developing new vaccines. Since the 1980s, vaccinations have prevented about 2.5 million deaths per year in the United States, according to Statista. This study also shows that vaccines have significantly reduced the rate of child mortality. They are also responsible for helping to eradicate diseases like Polio and smallpox. Pertussis no longer kills one out of every 100 infants hospitalized with whooping cough. Finally, the Haemophilus Influenza B vaccine has successfully prevented the infection, harm, or incapacitation of over 10,000 children annually. Staying informed about the advancement in vaccines allows parents and caregivers to make informed decisions about their children’s health.

As 2023 ends and we embark on the journey of improving our health and well-being into 2024, it’s important to prioritize the health and safety of our children. Vaccinations can help achieve your health goals by providing a fighting chance against preventable diseases. Building your child’s immunity will extend beyond individual protection and create a barrier for entire communities. We can ensure a healthier and safer 2024 for our children and the years ahead by staying informed, addressing vaccine hesitancy, and maintaining vaccination schedules.

Here’s to a new year focused on the health and protection of our children!

. . .

Sources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Weekly Flu Vaccination Dashboard

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Prevent Seasonal Flu

Statista: Vaccine-preventable diseases in the U.S. — statistics & facts

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