Vaccine News & Notes — May 2018

Children with autism, their younger siblings and serious infections

In an article for The Philadelphia Inquirer, VEC Director Dr. Paul Offit discussed a study that found an increased risk of serious infections in children with autism spectrum disorders and their younger siblings. The increased risk was the result of lower vaccination rates in these children. Dr. Offit discussed the reasons for this and how these groups can benefit from the protection of vaccination without fear of autism.

CDC warns of increase in mosquito and tick infections

From 2004-2016, the number of Americans getting diseases transmitted by mosquito, tick and flea bites has tripled according to a recent report released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The increase is due to a combination of new tick-borne diseases entering the continental U.S., and cases of Lyme disease and other infections already found in the U.S. increasing. As weather gets warmer and insect populations increase, diseases increase as well.

The VEC offers information and resources regarding some mosquito-borne illnesses, including yellow fever (Q&A also available), Zika virus and Japanese encephalitis virus, as well steps travelers can take (scroll to “Travelers” section of webpage) to protect themselves against these diseases. Kids Travel Doc and the CDC also offer resources for insect and mosquito control for your family.

Why Bill Gates is more afraid of mosquitoes than sharks

Mosquitoes kill more people in a day than sharks do in a century. It’s a fact that Bill Gates wants more people to know. Mosquito-borne illnesses are a focus of the Gates Foundation, a philanthropic organization that works to reduce inequities around the globe. Recently, Gates reintroduced Mosquito Week — playing off the popular Shark Week — publishing several posts related to mosquito-borne illnesses and prevention.  

Five important reasons to vaccinate your child

The Shot of Prevention blog recently outlined “Five Important Reasons to Vaccinate Your Child." Find out more about Shot of Prevention, or check out other posts.