Pneumonia Vaccine in Children

The pneumonia vaccine (Prevnar-7®) is a relatively new addition to the immunization schedule for infants and children. Even though many people call it the pneumonia vaccine it actually protects children against meningitis, blood infection, ear infection, and pneumonia.  In the U.S. Read more

H1N1 Vaccine Safety

There is just so much information available to us these days that it is often difficult to even know where to start when trying to answer a basic question.  One question that I have, as do many of my readers is… Read more

Thimerosal and the Flu Vaccine

There is still a great deal of concern in the press and especially cyberspace regarding Thimerosal, which is a mercury containing compound.  This is despite a wealth of evidence that it in no way leads to, or causes, autism.  However, Read more

Measles Stats

Here is a link to some recent stats on measles in the US. Of all the vaccines that parents choose to decline or delay, this is almost certainly number one on the list. More, of all the vaccines given, this is also first on the list for fear-mongering by the media and conspiracy theorizing by rogue scientists. Smart Parents no doubt consider all the information when making health decisions for their children. This article is certainly one important Read more

Dr. Bob’s Alternative Vaccine Schedule

Many parents have read The Vaccine Book, written by Dr. Sears, and have decided to use either his alternative or selective vaccine schedule.  For those who read this blog, you will note that I have recommended it as a useful book.  I think the book is well researched and gives parents a nice balance of the potential risks of vaccines and the actual risks of the diseases the vaccines are meant to prevent. Read more

Do Vaccines Cause That?!

Here is a new book about vaccine safety.  There are a wealth of books written by what I would consider unreliable sources.  The Vaccine Book on the other hand, written by Dr. Sears, is an excellent resource that I have commented on before.  Do Vaccines Cause that?! is another book that addresses the recent concerns that have been well publicized by the media.  It is difficult to decide what is best for your children.  Only by becoming a SmartParent can you hope to truly be equipped to make the best decisions for your children.  Read a brief excerpt here from amazon.  Read what other parents think by clicking here.

Sugar Water for Vaccine Pain

There are many different controversies surrounding immunization in children.  One of the controversies surrounds controlling the pain children experience with vaccinations.  If you do choose to vaccinate your baby, there are a few things you might consider to help ease the pain your newborn experiences. Read more

Ask the Doctor: The Flu Vaccine

LauraC asks:

What are your thoughts on elementary age children getting the flu vaccine? Ours have never had a serious case of the flu so we’re reluctant to vaccinate them for something that historically hasn’t been an issue. But I’m reading more and more about peds. across the board recommending it. Read more

Vaccine Refusal Fuels Jump in Measles!

If you remember a few months back you might have read an article that sounded something like this… Read more

The Great Vaccine Debate

This book is essential reading for anyone who wants to have an informed discussion about vaccination.  Dr. Sears has spend most of his pediatric career researching the safety concerns parents have regarding vaccination.  He lays out the facts and supports them with  well-researched scientific articles, not just his opinion.  He covers all the important topics in an easy to read format.  You will find answers to common questions like …” How common is each disease in the US?  How serious is each disease if my child gets it?  What are the real and theoretical risks of each vaccine.”  While he admits his pro-vacccine bias up front, he offers an alternative schedule, a selective schedule, and considerations for those who choose not to vaccinate at all.