In the News
This section contains links to information about vaccines that was recently in the news:
Where Could the Next Outbreak of Measles Be?
Wall Street Journal, March 20, 2012
Authors Valerie Bauerlein and Betsy McKay explore the potential breakdown of herd immunity when pockets of unvaccinated individuals accumulate in communities. The article,“Where Could the Next Outbreak of Measles Be?,” includes a map showing particular areas of concern and a video interview with one of the authors.
Measles Attacks: How Vaccination Skeptics Gave New Life to an Old Disease
Newsweek Magazine, 4/30/12
This brief article by Kent Sepkowitz discusses the rise of measles in the U.S. compared to the decrease of measles globally. Also discussed is the notion that “natural” disease is preferred over vaccination and why that may not be the best reason for deciding not to immunize. Read more»
Two new vaccines give Ghana hope for healthy growth
Reuters, 4/26/12
Ghana celebrated as two vaccines, rotavirus and pneumococcal, were introduced simultaneously for children in that country. Both vaccines protect against two of the most common killers — diarrhea and pneumonia, respectively — of children less than five 5 years of age. Logistical and economic considerations of this undertaking as well as interviews with parents and experts are included. Read more»
Autism rates on the rise
Data released suggesting another increase in the rates of autism in children were reported by various news sources:
- Autism’s Prevalence Grows: ‘This is a Big Problem’ - PBS Newshour, 3/29/12
- Diagnoses of Autism on the Rise, Report Says - New York Times, 3/29/12
- New High in U.S. Autism Rates Inspires Renewed Debate - Reuters, 3/29/12
- Autism Rates on the Rise - KQED San Francisco - Forum with Michael Krasny, 3/30/12
The Brain: The Troublesome Bloom of Autism
Discover Magazine, 3/5/12
Dr. Eric Courchesne knew he wanted to study neuroscience after suffering polio as a child. His career has focused on understanding autism. In his article, "The Brain: The Troublesome Bloom of Autism," Dr. Courchesne discusses his recent finding that brains of autistic children contain more neurons than those of children without autism as well as what this means in terms of understanding causes and prospects for treatment. Read more»
Last Updated: May 3, 2012
Materials in this section are updated as new information and vaccines become available. The Vaccine Education Center staff regularly reviews materials for accuracy.
You should not consider the information in this site to be specific, professional medical advice for your personal health or for your family's personal health. You should not use it to replace any relationship with a physician or other qualified healthcare professional. For medical concerns, including decisions about vaccinations, medications and other treatments, you should always consult your physician or, in serious cases, seek immediate assistance from emergency personnel.
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