News and Media Resources:
2003 Immunization News
December 2003
- December 19, 2003
Update: Influenza-Associated Deaths Reported Among Children Aged <18 Years - United States, 2003-04 Influenza Season
Since October, 42 influenza-associated deaths among children aged <18 years have been reported to CDC. All patients had influenza virus infection detected by rapid antigen testing or other laboratory testing methods. This report describes preliminary findings... - December 19, 2003
Notice to Readers: Limited Supply of Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine
...Until full production capacity is resumed, local shortages might occur. To minimize shortages, Wyeth Vaccines will implement an allocation plan to ensure the equitable distribution of vaccine supply among private purchasers... - December 19, 2003
Update: Influenza Activity -- United States, December 7-13, 2003
...Thirty-six state health departments reported widespread influenza activity, 12 states and New York City reported regional influenza activity, one state and the District of Columbia reported local influenza activity, and one state... - PEDIATRICS December 2003
Addressing Parents’ Concerns: Do Vaccines Contain Harmful Preservatives, Adjuvants, Additives, or Residuals?
Source: PEDIATRICS Vol. 112 No. 6 December 2003, pp. 1394-1397
...quantities of mercury, aluminum, formaldehyde, human serum albumin, antibiotics, and yeast proteins in vaccines have not been found to be harmful in humans or experimental animals... - December 17, 2003
Severe Morbidity and Mortality Associated With Influenza in Children and Young Adults—Michigan, 2003
(Journal of the American Medical Association. 2003;290:3058-3060)
This report summarizes the findings of this ongoing investigation, which indicate the need to better define the frequency of serious complications from influenza in healthy children and to incorporate such findings into evaluations of current vaccine recommendations for children... - December 17, 2003
Strengthening the Supply of Routinely Recommended Vaccines in the U.S.: Recommendations from the NVAC (Journal of the American Medical Association. 2003;290:3122-3128)
...supply disruptions are likely to continue to occur. Strategies... include expansion of vaccine stockpiles, increased support for regulatory agencies, maintenance and strengthening of liability protections, improved communication among stakeholders, increased availability of public information, and a campaign to emphasize the benefits of vaccination... - December 12, 2003
Notice to Readers: Request for Information About Acute Encephalopathy Associated with Influenza Virus Infection in U.S. Children
Since the mid-1990s, several hundred cases of acute encephalopathy have been reported in Japanese children with influenza virus infection... The majority of the children have had laboratory-confirmed evidence of influenza... - December 12, 2003
Update: Influenza Activity -- U.S., 2003-04 Season
...Cases of severe disease, including deaths, have been reported in children. This report summarizes influenza activity in the United States during weeks ending Oct.4-Dec. 6, 2003... - December 5, 2003
Erratum: Vol. 52, No. 47 In the notice to readers, "Call for Abstracts: International Conference on Emerging Infectious Diseases," an error occurred on page 1161; the wrong year was printed in four references to the conference. The correct year is 2004, not 2000. - December 2003 issue
Influenza Pandemic Preparedness (by K.F. Gensheimer, M.I. Meltzer, A.S. Postema, and R.A. Strikas)
Preparing for both the next influenza pandemic and the next bioterrorist attack requires support and collaboration from multiple partners at the state, local, and federal level. Potential partners include... - December 2003 issue
Generalized Vaccinia 2 Days after Smallpox Revaccination (by J.R. Miller, N.M. Cirino, and E.F. Philbin)
Generalized vaccinia (GV) is a typically self-limited adverse event following vaccination...
November 2003
- November 28, 2003
Notice to Readers: Call for Abstracts: International Conference on Emerging Infectious Diseases 2004
The International Conference on Emerging Infectious Diseases 2004 (ICEID 2004) is calling for late-breaker abstracts. Abstracts should address new, reemerging, or drug-resistant infectious diseases that affect human health. The late-breaker abstract submission website will open on December 10, 2003, and close promptly on January 16, 2004, at 5 p.m., Eastern Standard Time. - November 28, 2003
Health Status of American Indians Compared with Other Racial/Ethnic Minority Populations - Selected States, 2001-2002
Despite overall declines in morbidity and mortality in the United States in recent years, a persistent gap in health status remains between American Indians (AIs) and non-Hispanic whites (1,2). This report compares the health status of AIs with that of other racial/ethnic minority populations by using data from a survey conducted during 2001-2002 in 21 communities through the Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH) 2010 project. The results indicate that although AIs had a higher prevalence of chronic disease risk factors than other racial/ethnic minority populations, they also were more likely to use preventive services... - November 28, 2003
Global Progress Toward Certifying Polio Eradication and Laboratory Containment of Wild Polioviruses - August 2002-August 2003
Since the 1988 World Health Assembly resolution to eradicate poliomyelitis, the number of countries in which polio is endemic has declined from 125 to seven. This report summarizes the progress made toward global certification of poliomyelitis eradication and implementation of measures to ensure laboratory containment of wild polioviruses (WPVs)... - November 28, 2003
Hepatitis A Outbreak Associated with Green Onions at a Restaurant - Monaca, Pennsylvania, 2003
On November 21, 2003, this report was posted on the MMWR website (www.cdc.gov/mmwr ). However, two errors* were found. The text of the report printed here has been corrected. The Pennsylvania Department of Health and CDC are investigating an outbreak of hepatitis A outbreak among patrons of a restaurant in Monaca, Pennsylvania. As of November 20, approximately 555 persons with hepatitis A have been identified... Three persons have died...
- November 21, 2003
Hepatitis A Outbreak Associated with Green Onions at a Restaurant - Monaca, Pennsylvania, 2003
The Pennsylvania Department of Health and CDC are investigating an outbreak of hepatitis A among patrons of a restaurant in Monaca, Pennsylvania. As of November 20, approximately 555 persons with hepatitis A have been identified and three persons have died... Preliminary analysis of a case-control study implicated green onions as the source of the outbreak... - e Family Practice News* November 15, 2003
The Impact of the Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine on Pneumococcal Diseases: Keeping the Emerging Picture in Focus (exit)
(A supplement to Family Practice News. Sponsored by Boston Univ. School of Medicine)
What is the Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV)? The PCV and the Decline in Invasive Pneumococcal Diseases, Modification of Respiratory Infection in the Era of the PCV, and The PCV: Unanswered Questions... - e Family Practice News* November 15, 2003
Flu Shot Backed for Ages 6-23 Months (exit)
(Search for November 15, 2003 • Volume 33 • Number 22)
Influenza vaccine for all 6- to 23-month-old children and their household contacts will officially move from “encouraged” to “recommended” beginning in September 2004 ... - November 14, 2003
Notice to Readers: SMART BRFSS Provides Data Comparisons by Metropolitan and Micropolitan Statistical Area (MMSA)
Growth in sample sizes now enables CDC to offer data comparisons at the metropolitan level in the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). BRFSS prevalence estimates can be generated for the U.S. Census Bureau's metropolitan and micropolitan areas (MMSAs) and metropolitan divisions. MMSA data comparing 30 health risk factors will be offered to the public next week... - November 14, 2003
Outbreak of Severe Rotavirus Gastroenteritis Among Children - Jamaica, 2003
In late May 2003, the Jamaican Ministry of Health (MoH) identified a sharp increase in the number of acute gastroenteritis (AGE) cases reported throughout the country, accompanied by increases in AGE-associated hospital admissions and deaths among children. MoH began an investigation to determine the etiology of the outbreak... - November 14, 2003
First Human Death Associated with Raccoon Rabies - Virginia, 2003
Rabies is an acute, progressive, incurable viral encephalitis, caused by the bite of an infected animal. In March 2003, a previously healthy man aged 25 years from northern Virginia died from a diagnosed illness of meningoencephalitis of unknown etiology after a 3-week illness. Histopathologic review of central nervous system tissues at CDC revealed viral inclusions suggestive of Negri bodies, and subsequent tests confirmed a diagnosis of rabies...
- November 7, 2003
Progress Toward Poliomyelitis Eradication - Ethiopia, Somalia, and Sudan, January 2002-August 2003
Since the World Health Assembly of the World Health Organization (WHO) resolved in 1988 to eradicate poliomyelitis worldwide, the estimated number of polio cases has declined >99%, and the number of countries from which reports of polio were received has declined from 125 to seven. Ethiopia and Sudan have not reported wild poliovirus (WPV) cases in >1 year, and Somalia is approaching 1 year without evidence of WPV transmission... - November 7, 2003
Notice to Readers: National American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month - November 2003
November is National American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month. During this month, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services will join with other federal departments and agencies, local government offices, national and local organizations, and interested persons to recognize American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) contributions to the development and history of the United States... - November 7, 2003
Erratum: Vol. 52, No. 39
In the article, "Cardiac Deaths After a Mass Smallpox Vaccination Campaign-New York City, 1947," an error occurred in the labeling of Figure 3 on page 936. The findings are unchanged. The correct figure follows...
October 2003
- October 31, 2003
Measles Epidemic Attributed to Inadequate Vaccination Coverage - Campania, Italy, 2002
In Italy, measles has been a mandatory reportable disease for >100 years. During the late 1980s and 1990s, incidence declined with increasing measles vaccination coverage, but measles epidemics continued to occur periodically. In early 2002, measles incidence increased sharply; the area most affected was Campania... - October 31, 2003
Notice to Readers: Vaccine Delivery Technologies
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is sponsoring the Conference on Innovative Administration Systems for Vaccines, to be held December 18-19, 2003, in Rockville, Maryland. The conference will feature recent developments in methods to administer vaccines by routes that avoid the dangers and drawbacks of needle and syringe and that facilitate rapid implementation of mass vaccination programs... - October 24, 2003
Notice to Readers: Guidelines for Maintaining and Managing the Vaccine Cold Chain
This report describes proper storage units and storage temperatures, outlines appropriate temperature-monitoring practices, and recommends steps for evaluating a temperature-monitoring program... - November 2003 issue
Flow Cytometry and T-Cell Response Monitoring after Smallpox Vaccination (by F. Poccia, C. Gioia, C. Montesano, F. Martini, D. Horejsh, C. Castilletti, L. Pucillo, M. Capobianchi, and G. Ippolito)
Orthopoxvirus zoonosis or smallpox as result of bioterrorism or biological warfare represents a risk for epidemic spread... - November 2003 issue
Frequency of Revaccination against Smallpox (by Samuel Baron, Jingzhi Pan, and Joyce Poast)
Recent suggestions to revise guidelines that recommend extending the time for revaccination beyond 10 years may be based on insufficient and conflicting evidence of persistence of immunity... - November 2003 issue
Frequency of Revaccination against Smallpox (by Samuel Baron, Jingzhi Pan, and Joyce Poast)
Recent suggestions to revise guidelines that recommend extending the time for revaccination beyond 10 years may be based on insufficient and conflicting evidence of persistence of immunity...
- October 17, 2003
Public Health and Aging: Influenza Vaccination Coverage Among Adults Aged >50 Years and Pneumococcal Vaccination Coverage Among Adults Aged >65 Years - United States, 2002
Vaccination of persons at risk for complications from influenza and pneumococcal disease is a key public health strategy in preventing morbidity and mortality in the United States. During the 1990-1999 influenza seasons, approximately 36,000 deaths were attributed annually to influenza infection... - October 17, 2003
Notice to Readers: International Conference on Women and Infectious Diseases
CDC's National Center for Infectious Diseases, in collaboration with numerous partners, is planning the International Conference on Women and Infectious Diseases to be held February 27-28, 2004, in Atlanta, Georgia. Featured topics include women and human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, perinatal infectious diseases, vaccinations... - October 17, 2003
Notice to Readers: CDC Viral Hepatitis Resource Center Offers Free Materials for Health Professionals and the General Public
Viral hepatitis infections represent a major public health burden in the United States. Persons should understand what viral hepatitis is and what prevention measures they can take to prevent viral hepatitis infections. CDC has created a Viral Hepatitis Resource Center, at www.cdc.gov/hepatitis ... - October 10, 2003
Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Influenza and Pneumococcal Vaccination Levels Among Persons Aged >65 Years - United States, 1989-2001
Influenza and pneumococcal diseases are key causes of mortality among persons aged >65 years, accounting for approximately 36,000 and 3,400 deaths per year, respectively, during 1990-1999. Substantial racial/ethnic disparities in adult vaccination have been documented in national surveys... - October 10, 2003
Notice to Readers: Recommended Adult Immunization Schedule - United States, 2003-2004
In June 2003, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) approved the revised Adult Immunization Schedule for 2003-2004. The format has been revised to better represent the schedule's two components, age group and medical condition, and to better indicate how the footnotes apply... - October 10, 2003
Notice to Readers: Revised Standards for Adult Immunization Practices and Child and Adolescent Immunization Practices, 2003
During the 1990s, two sets of standards were introduced to guide delivery of vaccinations for adults and children. Under the leadership of the National Vaccine Advisory Committee (NVAC), both sets of standards have been revised... - October 10, 2003
Notice to Readers: National Adult Immunization Awareness Week, October 12-18, 2003
This year's National Adult Immunization Awareness Week (NAIAW) will be observed October 12-18. NAIAW highlights the influenza vaccination and emphasizes the need for healthcare providers and public health officials to intensify their efforts to vaccinate adults and adolescents...
- October 3, 2003
Cardiac Deaths After a Mass Smallpox Vaccination Campaign - New York City, 1947
During the first wave of the 2003 smallpox vaccination campaign, two ischemic cardiac deaths occurred in civilian vaccinees aged 55 and 57 years, and one occurred in a military vaccinee aged 55 years, 4-17 days after vaccination. To determine whether smallpox vaccination increased the risk for cardiac death in 1947, the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) analyzed data from NYC death certificates during that period. This report summarizes the results of that analysis... - October 3, 2003
Notice to Readers: SARS, Influenza, and Use of Influenza Vaccine
CDC supports and emphasizes the use of influenza vaccination for reducing influenza infections and their associated complications. CDC does not recommend influenza vaccination for the primary purpose of reducing the number of persons who might be evaluated for severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)...
September 2003
- September 26, 2003
Using Live, Attenuated Influenza Vaccine for Prevention and Control of Influenza (Supplemental Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) )
This report summarizes recommendations by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) for using intranasally administered, trivalent, cold-adapted, live, attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV)... - September 26, 2003
Notice to Readers: Immunization Registry Standards of Excellence in Support of Core Immunization Program Strategies
Progress continues to be made in achieving the national health objective for 2010 of increasing to 95% the proportion of children aged <6 years in a fully operational population-based immunization registry... - September 26, 2003
Update: Influenza Activity - United States and Worldwide, May-September 2003
During May-September 2003, influenza A(H3N2) viruses circulated worldwide and were associated with mild to moderate levels of disease activity. Influenza A(H1)* and B viruses were reported less frequently. In North America, isolates of influenza A(H3N2), A(H1), and B were identified sporadically. This report summarizes influenza activity... - September 26, 2003
Laboratory Surveillance for Wild and Vaccine-Derived Polioviruses, January 2002-June 2003
After the 1988 World Health Assembly resolution to eradicate poliomyelitis, the Global Laboratory Network for Poliomyelitis Eradication (the laboratory network) was established by the World Health Organization (WHO) (1). This report summarizes the laboratory network's performance... - September 26, 2003
Notice to Readers: FDA Approval of Diphtheria and Tetanus Toxoids and Acellular Pertussis Vaccine Adsorbed, (INFANRIX®) for Fifth Consecutive DTaP Vaccine Dose
On July 8, 2003, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of Diphtheria and Tetanus Toxoids and Acellular Pertussis Vaccine Adsorbed (DTaP) (INFANRIX®, SmithKline Beecham Biologicals, Rixensart, Belgium) as a fifth dose for children aged 4-6 years after 4 previous doses of INFANRIX®... - September 26, 2003
Transmission of Hepatitis B and C Viruses in Outpatient Settings-New York, Oklahoma, and Nebraska, 2000-2002
Transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) can occur in health-care settings from percutaneous or mucosal exposures. This report summarizes the investigation of four outbreaks of HBV and HCV infections that occurred in outpatient health-care settings...
- WASHINGTON POST September 22, 2003
Measles Cases Rebounding in Affluent Society
NOTE: This article was only accessed on the "Washington Post" website for 14 days from the date it was posted.
The faltering public confidence in the measles vaccination has British public health officials very worried, because the population of England and Wales is approaching a tipping point. It is about to lose "herd immunity" against one of childhood's most dangerous infections... - September 19, 2003
Public Health Dispatch: Measles Epidemic -- Majuro Atoll, Republic of the Marshall Islands, July 13-Sept. 13, 2003
This report describes the clinically diagnosed measles cases and the public health response to stop the epidemic... - September 19, 2003
Decline in Annual Incidence of Varicella -- Selected States, 1990-2001
This report summarizes trends in the annual reported incidence of varicella disease in selected states during 1990-2001. The findings underscore the continued need to improve varicella surveillance to monitor the impact of the varicella vaccination program and assess any changes in varicella transmission and disease... - e Family Practice News* September 15, 2003
Plenty of Influenza Vaccine Is Available This Season
(exit) (Search for September 15, 2003 • Volume 33 • Number 18)
This flu season, there's no need to skimp on shots. The CDC announced a sufficient supply of vaccines for the 2003-2004 flu season. This means that anyone—healthy or at high risk—who wants a flu shot can get one as early as next month, when this year's vaccine is made available... - September 12, 2003
Global Progress Toward Universal Childhood Hepatitis B Vaccination, 2003
In 1992, the World Health Organization (WHO) set a goal for all countries to integrate hepatitis B vaccination into their universal childhood vaccination programs by 1997. This report summarizes the global progress achieved toward vaccination of children against hepatitis B virus... - September 5, 2003
Severe Morbidity and Mortality Associated with Influenza in Children and Young Adults - Michigan, 2003
During late January 2003, the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) received reports of severe unexplained illnesses and deaths in children and young adults aged <21 years residing in Michigan. Subsequently, two of the deaths were found to be associated with influenza. This report summarizes the findings of this ongoing investigation... - September 5, 2003
Notice to Readers: Missing Vials of Aventis Pasteur Rabies Vaccine, August 2003
On August 27, 2003, Aventis Pasteur notified CDC about reports of packages of IMOVAX® Rabies, Rabies Vaccine (a reconstituted vaccine) that are missing the vial of freeze-dried vaccine... - e Family Practice News* September 1, 2003
Most Doctors Not Ready for Oct. 16 HIPAA Deadline (exit)
(Search for September 1, 2003 • Volume 33 • Number 17)
“With the October deadline just ahead, HHS has received a number of inquiries expressing concern over the health care industry's state of readiness,” HHS officials wrote. “In response, the department believes it is particularly important to outline its approach to enforcement of HIPAA's electronic transactions and code sets provisions.” ...
August 2003
- August 29, 2003
Update: Adverse Events Following Civilian Smallpox Vaccination - United States, 2003
During January 24-August 8, 2003, smallpox vaccine was administered to 38,257 civilian healthcare and public health workers to prepare for a possible terrorist attack using smallpox virus. This report updates information on vaccine-associated adverse events among civilians vaccinated since the beginning of the program... - August 29, 2003
Progress Toward Poliomyelitis Eradication - Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo, January 2002-June 2003
Since the World Health Assembly resolved in 1988 to eradicate poliomyelitis worldwide, the estimated global incidence of polio has decreased by 99%. This report summarizes progress made toward polio eradication during January 2002-June 2003 and highlights the remaining challenges... - August 22, 2003
Notice to Readers: Supplemental Recommendations About the Timing of Influenza Vaccination, 2003-04 Season
In response to delays in production and distribution of influenza vaccine during 2000, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended that first-available supplies of vaccine be administered to persons at increased risk for complications from influenza and to health-care workers. ACIP has incorporated this prioritization into its annual influenza recommendations. CDC has determined that vaccine production for the 2003-04 influenza season is proceeding satisfactorily and that influenza vaccination can proceed... - August 22, 2003
Vaccination Coverage Among Children Entering School - United States, 2002-03 School Year
All states require proof of vaccination for children before school entry, and a summary of that coverage is reported to CDC. This report presents data regarding vaccination coverage from the 50 states and the District of Columbia (DC) for the 2002-03 school year, which highlight high reporting rates and overall high coverage... - August 15, 2003
Notice to Readers: Satellite Broadcast on Immunization
This live satellite broadcast on immunization will be presented August 21 from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and rebroadcast from 12 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Both broadcasts will feature a live question-and-answer session using toll-free telephone lines... - August 8, 2003
Pneumococcal Vaccination for Cochlear Implant Candidates and Recipients: Updated Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices
In October 2002, CDC recommended that all persons with cochlear implants receive age-appropriate pneumococcal vaccination with 7-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV7) (Prevnar®), 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV23) (Pneumovax®), or both... - August 8, 2003
National, State, and Urban Area Vaccination Levels Among Children Aged 19-35 Months - United States, 2002
Each annual birth cohort in the United States comprises approximately four million infants. Maintaining the gains in childhood vaccination coverage achieved during the 1990s among these children poses an ongoing challenge for public health. This report presents National Immunization Survey findings for 2002†... - August 8, 2003
Vaccination Services in Postwar Iraq, May 2003
In the aftermath of the war in Iraq, core public health services (e.g., vaccination services, vectorborne disease control, and the Tuberculosis Directly Observed Therapy program) were disrupted. In addition, severe health hazards caused by damaged water and sanitation systems were added to an already compromised and deteriorating health-care system (1,2). This report assesses the cumulative impact of these conditions on vaccination services in postwar Iraq... - e Family Practice News* August 1, 2003
Feds Take Gentle Approach To Enforcing HIPAA: Physicians Erring on Side of Caution (exit)
(Search for August 1, 2003 • Volume 33 • Number 15)
After 3 months of required compliance for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, it appears that physicians are erring on the side of caution while the government continues to err on the side of gentle reminders rather than overt enforcement... - August 1, 2003
Vaccination Coverage Levels Among Alaska Native Children Aged 19-35 Months -- National Immunization Survey, U.S., 2000-2001
This report presents data...which indicate that vaccination coverage levels among AN children aged 19-35 months exceeded the national health objective for 2010 for the majority of vaccines. This achievement indicates the effectiveness of using multiple strategies to increase vaccination coverage. Similar efforts might increase vaccination coverage in other rural regions with American Indian (AI)/AN populations...
July 2003
- July 31, 2003
Pneumococcal Vaccination for Cochlear Implant Candidates and Recipients: Updated Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices
Because the rate for pneumococcal meningitis is higher in children with cochlear implants and Streptococcus pneumoniae is the most common pathogen causing bacterial meningitis in cochlear implant recipients of all ages with meningitis of known etiology, ACIP recommends the following for persons who have or are scheduled to receive a cochlear implant... - July 25, 2003
Progress Toward Poliomyelitis Eradication - Afghanistan and Pakistan, January 2002-May 2003
Since 1988, when the World Health Assembly resolved to eradicate poliomyelitis worldwide, the number of countries in which polio is endemic has decreased from 127 to 7. This report describes intensified polio eradication activities in Afghanistan and Pakistan during January 2002-May 2003, summarizes progress made, and highlights the remaining challenges... - e Family Practice News* July 15, 2003
FluMist Endorsed As Influenza Vaccine Alternative (exit)
(Search for July 15, 2003 • Volume 33 • Number 14)
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has endorsed the use of FluMist as “an important new option” for vaccinating healthy individuals aged 5-49 years... - July 9, 2003 (Editorial Opinion section)
Vaccines for Adults
Note: This article is now longer available on The New York Times website.
Most adults ensure that their children are vaccinated against childhood diseases, but many neglect to get their own immunizations. Even those who are well informed about health do not seem to know that adults, too, need vaccines. Nearly 50,000 adults die in America each year from vaccine-preventable diseases...
June 2003
- June 20, 2003
Tetanus Surveillance - United States, 1998-2000
Reported cases in the U.S. has declined steadily since introduction of tetanus toxoid vaccines in the 1940s...An average of 43 cases of tetanus was reported annually...The highest average annual incidence of reported tetanus was among persons aged >60 years, persons of Hispanic ethnicity, and older adults known to have diabetes... - June 20, 2003
Progress Toward Poliomyelitis Eradication - Nigeria, January 2002-March 2003
This report highlights progress in acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) surveillance and evidence of wild poliovirus (WPV) circulation in areas of lower vaccination coverage. The findings underscore the importance of achieving high-quality supplementary immunization activities (SIAs)... - June 13, 2003
Varicella-Related Deaths - United States, 2002
Varicella is a vaccine-preventable disease that can be fatal. During 2002, state health departments notified CDC about nine fatal cases of varicella in adults and children. This report summarizes clinical data for one adult and one child... - June 6, 2003
Progress Toward Poliomyelitis Eradication - Southern Africa, 2001-March 2003
Since the 1988 World Health Assembly resolution to eradicate poliomyelitis globally, substantial progress has been made in all World Health Organization (WHO) regions. This report summarizes polio eradication efforts in the Southern African block during January 2001-March 2003... - June 6, 2003
Update: Influenza Activity - United States and Worldwide, 2002-03 Season, and Composition of the 2003-04 Influenza Vaccine
In collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), CDC conducts surveillance to monitor influenza activity and to detect antigenic changes in the circulating strains of influenza viruses. This report summarizes influenza activity in the United States and worldwide during the 2002-03 influenza season... - June 6, 2003
Erratum: Vol. 52, No. RR-8
In the MMWR Recommendations and Reports, "Prevention and Control of Influenza: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP)," published April 25, 2003, on page 12, an error occurred in the title for Table 3. The title should read, "Influenza vaccine* dosage by age group - U.S., 2003-04 season."
May 2003
- May 30, 2003
Update: Cardiac-Related Events During the Civilian Smallpox Vaccination Program-United States, 2003
During the pre-event smallpox vaccination program, the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) and CDC have received reports of cardiac events after vaccination. This report includes the case definition for myo/pericarditis as a smallpox vaccine-associated adverse event and updates information on cardiac adverse events... - May 23, 2003
Update: Global Measles Control and Mortality Reduction Worldwide, 1991-2001
Despite international recognition of the high burden of disease associated with measles and the existence for 40 years of a safe, effective, and inexpensive vaccine, measles remains the leading cause of vaccine-preventable childhood mortality.This report describes progress toward eliminating measles... - May 23, 2003
Update: Adverse Events Following Civilian Smallpox Vaccination - United States, 2003
During January 24-May 9, 2003, smallpox vaccine was administered to 36,217 civilian healthcare and public health workers in 55 jurisdictions to prepare the United States for a possible terrorist attack using smallpox virus. This report updates information on vaccine-associated adverse events... - May 16, 2003
Notice to Readers: Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine Shortage Resolved
Vaccine production and deliveries of Prevnar™, a 7-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine manufactured by Wyeth Lederle Vaccines, are now adequate to permit a return to the routine vaccination schedule... Despite the shortage, introduction of the vaccine has been associated with a 69% decline in invasive disease among children aged <2 years through 2001... - May 16, 2003
Update: Adverse Events Following Civilian Smallpox Vaccination -- United States, 2003
During January 24-May 2, 2003, smallpox vaccine was administered to 35,903 civilian healthcare and public health workers in 55 jurisdictions to prepare the United States for a possible terrorist attack using smallpox virus. This report updates information on vaccine-associated adverse events... - May 2, 2003
Update: Adverse Events Following Civilian Smallpox Vaccination - United States, 2003
During January 24-April 25, 2003, smallpox vaccine was administered to 34,541 civilian healthcare and public health workers in 54 jurisdictions to prepare the United States for a possible terrorist attack using smallpox virus. This report updates information on vaccine-associated adverse events... - May 2, 2003
Women with Smallpox Vaccine Exposure During Pregnancy Reported to the National Smallpox Vaccine in Pregnancy Registry - United States, 2003
In the absence of circulating smallpox, pregnant women should not be exposed to live vaccinia virus contained in the smallpox vaccine. The smallpox vaccine should not be administered to women who are pregnant or might become pregnant within 4 weeks after vaccination...
April 2003
- UNICEF April 28, 2003
Angola Launches Massive Campaign to Immunize Seven Million Children Against Measles by May 19, 2003 (exit)
On April 21, Angola began the biggest health campaign in the nation's history, aiming to inoculate seven million children against measles by May 19. The campaign goal is to reduce by 75 percent the number of deaths caused by measles, which claims the lives of more than 7,000 Angolan children annually... - ACOG April 28, 2003
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Place its Guidelines on Immunization During Pregnancy into the Public Domain (exit)
The ACOG Committee Opinion No. 282, "Immunization During Pregnancy," is now available in the public domain. Originally published in January in ACOG's journal, "Obstetrics & Gynecology," the document reflects emerging clinical and scientific advances and is subject to change because the effects of many diseases and vaccines on the pregnant woman or the fetus may be rare and infrequently reported...
- April 25, 2003
Update: Adverse Events Following Civilian Smallpox Vaccination - United States, 2003
During January 24-April 18, 2003, smallpox vaccine was administered to 33,444 civilian healthcare and public health workers to prepare the United States for a possible terrorist attack using smallpox virus. This report updates information on vaccine-associated adverse events among civilians... - April 25, 2003
Nationwide Measles Vaccination Campaign for Children Aged 6 Months-12 Years - Afghanistan, 2002
The public health infrastructure in Afghanistan has been devastated by 23 years of civil war, and both the infant mortality rate and the mortality rate for children aged <5 years are among the highest in the world. To reduce measles-related mortality, the Ministry of Health (MoH) of the Interim Government of Afghanistan... - April 25, 2003
Progress Toward Global Eradication of Poliomyelitis, 2002
Since the 1988 World Health Assembly resolution to eradicate poliomyelitis globally through 2002, the number of countries where polio is endemic declined from 125 to 7, and the estimated incidence of polio decreased >99%. Despite these achievements, a provisional total of 1,920 polio cases were reported during 2002, a substantial increase from 2001... - April 25, 2003
Notice to Readers: Public Health Information Network Conference
The first annual Public Health Information Network (PHIN) Conference will be held May 13-15, 2003, in Atlanta, Georgia. Sponsored by CDC and collaborating public health organizations, this conference brings together elements involved in the development of public health information systems. Registration and a tentative agenda are available at http://sec.cdcmeetings.com/phin/index.asp - April 25, 2003
Clarification: Vol. 52, No. 10
During January 24-April 13, 2003, smallpox vaccine was administered to 32,644 civilian healthcare and public health workers as part of an effort to prepare for a possible terrorist attack using smallpox virus. This report updates information on all vaccine-associated adverse events among civilians vaccinated... - April 18, 2003
Update: Adverse Events Following Civilian Smallpox Vaccination - United States, 2003
In the Notice to Readers: FDA Licensure of Diphtheria and Tetanus Toxoids and Acellular Pertussis Adsorbed, Hepatitis B (Recombinant), and Poliovirus Vaccine Combined (PEDIARIX™) for Use in Infants, there were two potentially misleading statements...
- April 18, 2003
Clarification: Vol. 51, No. 40
In the Notice to Readers: Recommended Adult Immunization Schedule - United States, 2002-2003, the eighth footnote in Figure 1 incorrectly implied that the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommended that adults born after 1956 and without a history of measles vaccination should receive 2 doses of measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine... - April 11, 2003
Notice to Readers: National Infant Immunization Week -- April 13-19, 2003
This year's theme is "Love Them. Protect Them. Immunize Them." The NIIW emphasizes the importance of timely infant and childhood vaccination. Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to protect children, especially infants and young children, from potentially serious diseases. Because of increased vaccination efforts in the U.S., incidences of the majority of vaccine-preventable diseases have decreased approximately 99% from peak pre-vaccine levels ... - April 11, 2003
Update on Adverse Events Following Civilian Smallpox Vaccination - U.S., 2003
During Jan. 24-Apr. 4, 2003, smallpox vaccine was administered to 31,297 civilian healthcare and public health workers as part of an effort to prepare the U.S. for a possible terrorist attack using smallpox virus. This report updates information on all vaccine-associated adverse events from VAERS... - April 4, 2003
Hepatitis C Virus Transmission from an Antibody-Negative Organ and Tissue Donor - U.S., 2000-2002
In June 2002, a physician reported to the Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) a case of acute hepatitis C in a patient who had received a bone allograft from a donor approximately 6 weeks before onset of illness. The ensuing investigation confirmed that the donor was the probable source of HCV infection... - April 4, 2003
Update: Adverse Events Following Smallpox Vaccination - U. S., 2003
During January 24-March 28, 2003, smallpox vaccine was administered to 29,584 civilian health-care and public health workers in 54 jurisdictions. This report summarizes data on ten cases of cardiac adverse events reported... - April 4, 2003
Supplemental Recommendations on Adverse Events Following Smallpox Vaccine in the Pre-Event Vaccination Program: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices
The ACIP has issued recommendations previously for use of smallpox vaccine and supplemental recommendations for use of smallpox vaccine in the pre-event civilian vaccination program. These recommendations supplement those previously issued by ACIP...
March 2003
- March 28, 2003
Cardiac Adverse Events Following Smallpox Vaccination - U.S., 2003
Seven cases of cardiac adverse events have been reported among civilian vaccinees since the beginning of the smallpox vaccination program... - March 28, 2003
Progress Toward Poliomyelitis Eradication - Egypt, 2002
This report summarizes progress during 2002 toward polio eradication in Egypt, where several independent chains of wild poliovirus type 1 (P1) transmission continue to circulate despite a long history of eradication efforts... - March 28, 2003
National Smallpox Vaccine in Pregnancy Registry
CDC has established the National Smallpox Vaccine in Pregnancy Registry, a surveillance system to monitor the outcomes in women who inadvertently received smallpox vaccine during pregnancy, became pregnant within 28 days after vaccination, were a close contact with a vaccinee within 28 days... - March 21, 2003
Update: Influenza Activity - U.S., 2002-03 Season
This report summarizes influenza activity in the United States during September 29, 2002-March 8, 2003, and updates the previous summary... - March 21, 2003
Absence of Transmission of the d9 Measles Virus - Region of the Americas, November 2002-March 2003
As of March 16, 2003, the Region of the Americas has been free for 17 weeks from known circulation of the d9 measles virus, the strain responsible for the only large outbreak of measles in the region during 2002... - March 21, 2003
Smallpox Vaccine Adverse Events Among Civilians - U.S., 2003
During January 24-March 14, smallpox vaccine was administered to 21,698 civilian health-care and public health workers...
- e Family Practice News* March 15, 2003
ACIP Addresses Pediarix, Influenza (exit)
(Search for February 15, 2003 • Volume 33 • Number 6)
The pentavalent vaccine Pediarix is beneficial for children and physicians, but concerns remain...The ACIP also revisited the possibility of offering a full recommendation for influenza vaccination for healthy children aged 6-23 months... - March 14, 2003
Smallpox Vaccine Adverse Events Among Civilians - U.S., March 4-10, 2003
This report summarizes smallpox vaccine adverse events reported among civilians vaccinated as of Mar. 7, 2003, and among contacts of vaccinees, received by CDC from Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) as of March 10... - March 14, 2003
National Vaccine Advisory Committee Report on Strengthening the Vaccine Supply
The report describes the immediate and contributing factors leading to the 2001-2002 vaccine supply shortages and outlines 12 recommendations to prevent future shortages... - March 14, 2003
FDA Licensure of Diphtheria and Tetanus Toxoids and Acellular Pertussis Adsorbed, Hepatitis B (Recombinant), and Poliovirus Vaccine Combined, (PEDIARIX™) for Use in Infants
On December 13, 2002, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) licensed a combined ... - March 7, 2003
Progress Toward Poliomyelitis Eradication - India, 2002
This report summarizes the status of polio eradication activities in India during 2002, analyzes the factors contributing to the resurgence, and describes the actions being taken to reduce poliovirus transmission... - March 7, 2003
Vaccination Coverage Among Children Enrolled in Head Start Programs, Licensed Child Care Facilities, and Entering School - U.S., 2000-01 School Year
The implementation of state and local requirements for vaccination before entry to Head Start programs, licensed child care facilities, and school has resulted in high vaccination levels among preschool and school children... - March 7, 2003
Smallpox Vaccine Adverse Events Among Civilians - U.S., February 25-March 3, 2003
This report summarizes smallpox vaccine adverse events reported among civilians vaccinated as of Feb. 28, 2003, and among contacts of vaccinees, received by CDC from Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) as of March 3... - March, 2003
Epidemiology of Meningococcal Disease, New York City, 1989–2000
The incidence of serogroup B infections has dramatically declined. Evidence suggests that this decline may be the unintended result of H. influenzae type b vaccine use that incorporates the meningococcus serogroup B outer membrane protein...
February 2003
- February 28, 2003
Recommendations for Using Smallpox Vaccine in a Pre-Event Vaccination Program: Supplemental Recommendations of the ACIP and the HICPAC
This report supplements the 2001 statement by the ACIP. (CDC. Vaccinia [smallpox] vaccine: recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices [ACIP], 2001. MMWR 2001;50[No. RR-10]:1--25)... - February 28, 2003
Smallpox Vaccine Adverse Events Among Civilians - U.S., February 18-24, 2003
During the civilian smallpox vaccination program, CDC and state health departments are conducting surveillance for vaccine-associated adverse events.... - February 28, 2003
Availability of Maxi-Vac Smallpox Vaccination Software
Free copies of the Maxi-Vac software program are now available. Maxi-Vac allows officials to refine smallpox vaccination clinic human resource allocations (e.g., physicians, nurses, and other staff) to maximize patient flow-through.... - February 21, 2003
Smallpox Vaccination and Adverse Reactions: Guidance for Clinicians
The guidance in this report is for evaluation and treatment of patients with complications from smallpox vaccination in the preoutbreak setting... - February 21, 2003
Smallpox Vaccine Adverse Events Among Civilians - U.S., January 24 - February 18, 2003
This report summarizes smallpox vaccine adverse events reported among civilians vaccinated as of February 14, 2003, and received by CDC from the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) as of February 18... - e Family Practice News* February 15, 2003
Sugar and Hugs a Salve for Immunization Pain (exit)
(Search for February 15, 2003 • Volume 33 • Number 4)
Oral sucrose, pacifiers, and parental cuddling are simple and effective ways to reduce pain during the procedure of multiple immunizations... - February 7, 2003
Smallpox Vaccine Adverse Events Monitoring and Response System for the First Stage of the Smallpox Vaccination Program
Smallpox vaccination of civilian volunteer health-care workers began on January 24, 2003. As of February 4, a total of 37 states and counties have received shipments of smallpox vaccine, and 18 states and counties have begun smallpox vaccination; no serious adverse events have been reported. To monitor the occurrence... - February 7, 2003
Epidemiology and Prevention of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases Satellite Broadcasts and Webcasts
CDC will sponsor "Epidemiology and Prevention of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases," a four-part series of live interactive programs that will provide the most current information available in the field of immunization...
January 2003
- January 31, 2003
Recommended Childhood and Adolescent Immunization Schedule, 2003
Each year, CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) reviews the recommended childhood and adolescent immunization schedule to ensure that it is current with changes in manufacturers' vaccine formulations and contains revised recommendations for the use of licensed vaccines, including those newly licensed...See Erratum - January 31, 2003
Facilitating Influenza and Pneumococcal Vaccination Through Standing Orders Programs
The ACIP recommends the use of standing orders programs in both outpatient and inpatient settings. As a result of this recommendation, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid published an interim final rule that removes the physician signature requirement for influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations... - January 24, 2003
Smallpox Vaccination and Adverse Reactions: Guidance for Clinicians
The guidance in this report is for evaluation and treatment of patients with complications from smallpox vaccination in the preoutbreak setting. Information is also included related to reporting adverse events and seeking specialized consultation and therapies for these events... - January 24, 2003
Conference on Vaccine Research
The 6th annual conference on Vaccine Research: Basic Science, Product Development, Clinical and Field Studies will be held May 5-7, 2003, in Arlington, Virginia. The meeting is co-sponsored by CDC, NFID, etc., involved in research, development, and use of vaccines and associated technologies for the prevention of human and veterinary diseases through vaccination...
- January 24, 2003
Surveillance for Safety After Immunization: VAERS - U.S., 1991-2001
This report provides health-care providers, public health professionals, vaccine manufacturers, and members of the public who are interested in vaccine safety with an overview of the information collected in VAERS regarding adverse events reported during the previous 11 years...See Erratum - January 24, 2003
Prevention and Control of Infections with Hepatitis Viruses in Correctional Settings
-- Appendix Hepatitis A and B Vaccines
These recommendations provide guidelines for juvenile and adult correctional systems regarding 1) identification and investigation of acute viral hepatitis; 2) preexposure and postexposure immunization for hepatitis A and hepatitis B...See Erratum - January 17, 2003
Update: Influenza Activity - U.S., 2002-03 Season
Although overall influenza activity in the United States remained low from late September through early January, it is expected to increase during the coming weeks. Laboratory-confirmed influenza infections have been reported from 25 states... - January 10, 2003
Pertussis Outbreak Among Adults at an Oil Refinery - Illinois, August-October 2002
Through enhanced case finding, 24 cases of pertussis, 21 (88%) of which occurred in adults aged >20 years, were identified in this outbreak, underscoring the need to recognize this highly infectious disease in adults and to improve national diagnostic and preventive strategies...
- January 10, 2003
Accelerated Measles Control - Cambodia, 1999-2002
This report summarizes measles-vaccination activities and their impact in reducing reported measles cases from 13,827 in 1999 to 1,234 in 2002 and suggests options for future measles-control efforts in postconflict situations... - e Family Practice News* January 1, 2003
Smallpox Plan Relies on Primary Care Physicians to Educate Patients (exit)
(Search for January 1, 2003 • Volume 33 • Number 1)
Physician education about smallpox vaccination has become a priority for both the public and private health sectors now that President Bush has announced his plan to reintroduce the vaccine into the U.S. population... - January, 2003
Cost-Effectiveness of a Potential Vaccine for Human papillomavirus
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, usually a sexually transmitted disease, is a risk factor for cervical cancer. Given the substantial disease and death associated with HPV and cervical cancer, development of a prophylactic HPV vaccine is a public health priority...
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Content Source: National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases