SPOTLIGHT -
Did a Vaccine Cause this Disease?
Active, healthy 11-y/o boy develops degenerative neurologic symptoms. PMH relevant for measles at age 1 year, MMR vaccine at 8 months. Is there a connection?
Quadrivalent or Trivalent Flu Vaccine? CDC Says it Doesn’t Matter
In the absence of an official preference for one formulation over another, we can do what's best for our patients.
A Pope, a Fetus, and a Vaccine
A seasoned pediatrician learns something new after a mother offers a moral defense against the Varivax vaccine for her son.
Vaccines and Refrigeration: Beware of Thin Ice
There is no room in the office refrigerator for Monday's vaccine delivery. Your son's mini-fridge is an ideal temporary fix. True or False?
"HPV Vaccine for My Son? Not so Fast..."
The mother of a 12-year-old boy resists your suggestion that he receive the HPV4 vaccine today. She asks three good questions. Do you know the answers?
Immunization and the Internet: How Would You Handle This Mom?
It's Monday morning and you're only 20 minutes behind. Per routine, you ask the mother of the 12-month-old in your office if she has any questions about the shots he's about to receive...
Varicella Vaccination Today, Lower Risk of Zoster Tomorrow
The mother of a 12-month-old says she'd rather her son have the chickenpox ("It's such a mild disease...") than be vaccinated today. Here, the pros and cons.
A Young Boy with Asthma and Egg Allergy Gets a Flu Shot
FluBlok, new this year, is egg-free but approved for persons aged 18 to 49 years only. The other options, and precautions, are discussed here.
Egg Allergy, Asthma, and a Flu Shot, But Which One?
The 5-year-old in your office has asthma and is egg-allergic. Mom wants him to have a flu shot today, but only if it can be given safely. Can it? With which vaccine?
MMR Vaccine and Febrile Seizures: What's the Risk?
If you aren't ready with the answer to this question and a way to put it in context for parents, you just might not get another chance. What would you say?
MMR Vaccine and Febrile Seizures: Benefit Tops Risk
Here's how to put a parent's concern to rest.
Opportunistic Vaccination: A Flu Shot For Big Sister, Too
Since mom went to the hassle of bringing along the 4 year old to her little brother's appointment, why not help make it worth the trip and get her up-to-date, too?
Fluzone Administered: Does Baby Need More?
Your answer to the question in this case will hinge on what you know about the influenza strains in the 2014-2015 vaccine vs those in the 2013-2014 formulation. See what you think.
What's Your Flu IQ for 2014-2015?
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has just published its official recommendations for the 2014-2015 influenza season. How do the updated guidelines apply to this potential office situation?