Vaccine News & Notes — May 2017

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Tens of thousands march for science

On April 22, 2017, people gathered in more than 600 locations around the world to voice support for science. More than 100,000 people marched to highlight how science improves and serves society. Dr. Offit was a keynote speaker  at the march in Philadelphia, arguing that scientific research in the United States was a privilege, not a right; and that the taxpayer (voter) grants us that privilege. So we, as scientists, need to explain what we do and why we do it to the public. A “Week of Action” followed the march with each day dedicated to a different area of focus, such as engagement, discovery, empowerment, creation, communication, advocacy and connection. Visit March for Science homepage for ways to get involved and spread the word about the vital role science plays in our lives and our society.

New! Evaluating scientific information

A recently published, printable sheet offers guidance in evaluating media reports, websites and scientific studies. The new Q&A sheet was written by the Vaccine Education Center (VEC) at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and can be found on the Special Topics page of the VEC website.

Why were fetal cells used to make certain vaccines?

Find out more in this new article by the VEC. The article is based on portions of the book by Meredith Wadman, The Vaccine Race  (2017, Viking, Penguin random House, LLC).

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.