Smallpox, measles, diphtheria, polio: vaccines have diminished their
power, and in some cases, eradicated these dreaded diseases. Yet this
century has seen growing numbers of parents refusing vaccinations for
their children, not only endangering them but also increasing the risk
of outbreaks and epidemics of vaccine-preventable diseases.
Understanding and Managing Vaccine Concerns concisely explainsthe
evolution of vaccine concerns, and gives clinicians hands-on help in
dealing with vaccine hesitation and outright refusal among parents.
Persistent themes in refusal, such as a supposed autism/vaccine link and
the belief that too many vaccines are given too soon, are discussed and
recent statistics given for trends in vaccine refusal and delay. Central
to the book is a detailed guide to vaccine concern management, with
sample responses that readers can tailor to address vaccine refusal and
specific concerns regarding individual vaccines and their components.
This thorough grounding will assist providers in countering
misinformation with facts and allaying fears with medically and
ethically sound responses. Included in this practical resource:
- A brief history of vaccine concerns.
- Current trends in vaccine hesitancy and refusal.
- Health implications of vaccine refusal.
- Characteristics and beliefs of vaccine-concerned parents.
- The CASE approach: a management strategy for vaccine concerns.
- Additional considerations in management strategies.
The debate over vaccination isn't going away any time soon, and neither
is the potential threat to public health, making Understanding and
Managing Vaccine Concerns a timely and necessary addition to the
libraries of pediatricians, nurses, and other healthcare providers.
