CDC Videos
The CDC launched a new video in their animated series for parents. The latest video is on vaccine timing and address the importance of being vaccinated on time. The complete series can be found here.
NFID Webinar
A recording of the webinar Learning at School or at Home: Why Routine Vaccinations are as Important as Ever is available. The webinar features Patricia N. Whitely-Williams, MD, NFID President; Craig Roberst PA-C, MS, American College of Health Representative; and Laurie Combe, MN, RN, NCSN, President of the National Association of School nurses. Presenters discuss the importance of vaccines for all students and the role of school nurses in increasing vaccination compliance with a special focus on the COVID-19 pandemic and its effect on vaccination.
More information on COVID-19 and immunization can be found on the NFID’s page Keep Up the Rates.
SHEA Policy Statement
On October 16, the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA) issued a policy statement stating that “only recognized medical contraindications should be accepted for not receiving recommended immunizations.” SHEA is now the eleventh medical organization to publish a statement endorsing the elimination of non-medical vaccination exemptions for school and childcare.
Explaining Herd Immunity
A recent article on The Medical Bag aims to assist providers in explaining herd immunity to patients. “The most direct way to explain community immunity to a patient is to say, ‘When vaccinated, you are helping to protect not only yourself but also your family, friends, neighbors, colleagues and others throughout the community.’” The article includes talking points, graphics, and discussion of how herd immunity might apply to COVID-19.