Pertussis vaccines: seeking a better mousetrap
Article Abstract:
Whole-cell pertussis vaccines, while relatively crude, are still quite effective in protecting individuals against whooping cough. A 1992 study found that whole-cell vaccine was 95% effective in protecting children against the severe form of the disease. However, reports of serious side effects have prompted scientists to develop acellular vaccines. Many scientists have reviewed the literature on the side effects of whole-cell vaccines, and they concluded that the risk of developing severe neurological complications from whole-cell vaccines is small. Acellular vaccines are more expensive, and there is little research on their effectiveness. They should undergo the same rigorous testing as any vaccine. It is possible that an acellular vaccine could be given to newborn infants, to protect those at the highest risk of developing whooping cough. Until these vaccines have been tested, the whole-cell vaccine should be used.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1992
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Efficacy of whole-cell pertussis vaccine in preschool children in the United States
Article Abstract:
Whole-cell pertussis vaccine may be effective in preventing whooping cough in children who are exposed to the disease. The vaccination records of 347 children who were exposed to a family member with whooping cough between 1984 and 1986 were reviewed. The vaccine was 64% effective in protecting children from a mild form of the disease and 95% effective in protecting children from a severe form. The vaccine's effectiveness also increased as the number of doses increased. It was 44% effective in children who had received only one dose and 92% effective in those who had received four or more doses. The vaccine's effectiveness was lower if the infected sibling had not been treated or had been treated with an antibiotic other than erythromycin. Concerns about side effects of whole-cell pertussis vaccines have led to the development of acellular vaccines.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1992
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Vaccination for varicella - just do it!
Article Abstract:
The varicella vaccine can effectively prevent chickenpox and should be administered routinely to children and susceptible adults. Since it was licensed in 1995, the vaccine has only been given to about 20% of two-year-olds, despite recommendations from pediatric and public health organizations to use it in all children. Studies show that the vaccine confers long-lasting immunity and prevents a disease that can be fatal in adults. Physicians should not wait for children to develop chickenpox naturally, but should use the vaccine to provide immunity and reduce the spread of the disease.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1997
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