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Vaccines 2025: a new calendar to better protect those over 60 and people at risk

by Priya Deshmukh
written by Priya Deshmukh

Breaking News: Expanded 2025 Vaccine Protection for Seniors Combats COVID-19, Flu, Shingles, and More

Archyde

In light of the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, France’s Directorate General of Health (DGS) and the High Authority for Health (HAS) are ramping up efforts to enhance senior vaccination policies. Announced today, the 2025 vaccine calendar introduces targeted adjustments, aiming to shield the most vulnerable populations against COVID-19, flu, shingles, and pneumococcal infections.

Significant 2025 Vaccine Developments

The following updates are crucial for ensuring senior health and well-being:

  • Annual COVID-19 Recall: Scheduled for those over 65, high-risk individuals, and healthcare professionals, to be administered in the fall alongside the flu vaccine.
  • Extended Zoster Vaccine Recommendation: The zona vaccine may now be offered from age 60, particularly for those with comorbidities.
  • Stronger Pneumococcal Coverage: Transitioning to the 20-Valent Conjugated Pneumococcal Vaccine for increased protection.
  • Simplified Vaccination Pathways: Enhanced access to vaccines through pharmacists, nurses, and midwives, both on prescription and, in some cases, without.

The Importance of Vaccination among Seniors

As we age, our immune systems weaken due to immunosenescence. This makes seniors more susceptible to serious complications from otherwise common infections. Vaccination is a vital preventive measure, reinforcing health and reducing hospitalizations, loss of autonomy, and ICU admissions.

Ensuring Accessibility and Reach

In 2025, vaccination strategies will expand to include broader skill sets among healthcare professionals, bettering the management of expensive vaccines like Shingrix. Public awareness campaigns will inform and motivate seniors to stay current with their vaccinations. This coincides with efforts to combat vaccine hesitancy and misinformation, as shown by the data – less than 40% of French seniors received a COVID-19 recall in 2023.

2025 Vaccine Calendar Summary

Vaccine Recommended Age Frequency / Reminder
Seasonal flu From 65 Every year, in the fall
COVID-19 From 65 1 time a year (in the fall)
Zona (Shingrix) From 60 (planned) A series of 2 doses
Pneumococcus From 65 or at risk Single dose or specific schedule recommended
DTP (recall) Every 20 years between 25-65; every 10 years thereafter Maintenance

Evergreen Context: The Shift Towards Preventive Care

Ever since the COVID-19 pandemic, public health strategies globally have embraced a preventive approach, placing greater emphasis on vaccination as the first line of defense. This shift is a move towards a robust immunization strategy, ensuring that vulnerable populations remain protected against a wide array of preventable diseases. As we age, staying updated on vaccinations becomes more essential than ever to support active and healthy aging.

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Health

Measles Death: Unvaccinated Mother’s Baby Dies in Canada

by Alexandra Hartman
written by Alexandra Hartman

Infant Dies From Measles Amid Canada Outbreak: Unvaccinated Mother’s Child Succumbs to Virus

A Tragic case in Canada highlights the dangers of the ongoing measles resurgence. A newborn infant has died after contracting measles from the baby’s unvaccinated mother, according to health authorities.This heartbreaking event underscores the critical importance of vaccinations, especially amid rising measles cases across the country.

Canada has reported 2,755 measles cases, including 2,429 confirmed and 326 probable, based on federal health data updated through June 2nd.The epicenter of this outbreak is ontario, where almost 2,000 cases have been documented.

Ontario’s Health official Confirms Details

Ontario’s Medical Director of Health, kieran Moore, stated that the infant contracted measles before birth from a mother who had not received the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. While measles was a contributing factor in the death, the infant also faced other serious medical complications unrelated to the virus.

This tragic death, potentially the first directly linked to the current outbreak, emphasizes the severe risks measles poses to vulnerable populations, notably infants. Measles is a highly contagious respiratory virus spread through droplets produced by coughing, sneezing, or even breathing. It poses a important threat to unvaccinated individuals, including babies too young to be vaccinated and those wiht weakened immune systems.

Measles Resurgence: A Growing Global concern

Before widespread immunization programs in the early 1970s, hundreds in Canada died annually from measles. The virus was considered eradicated in 1998, but imported cases continue to spark outbreaks. The United States is also grappling with a measles resurgence, especially affecting communities with low vaccination rates.

Disclaimer: This article provides data regarding a measles outbreak. For medical advice, consult a healthcare professional.

Understanding Measles: Symptoms, Complications, and Prevention

Measles, characterized by a distinctive skin rash, can lead to serious complications like pneumonia, brain inflammation, and premature delivery. Vaccination is the primary defense against this preventable disease. The MMR vaccine is highly effective and safe,offering long-lasting protection.

Key facts About Measles

  • Measles is a highly contagious viral infection.
  • Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and a characteristic rash.
  • Complications can be severe, including pneumonia and encephalitis.
  • Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles.

“Although the majority of measles cases, 61%, occur among children younger than 5 years of age, in recent years, a greater proportion of cases has been seen among persons aged ≥20 years,” the CDC reports as of May 23, 2024.

Vaccination Efforts and Community Outreach

Health officials are intensifying vaccination efforts to curb the spread of measles. Outreach programs target communities with lower vaccination rates, providing education and access to vaccines. These efforts are critical to protecting vulnerable populations and preventing further outbreaks.

In March, Moore highlighted that the outbreak disproportionately affected some Mennonite, Amish, and other Anabaptist communities due to lower vaccination rates. Tailored interventions are necessary to address specific concerns and improve vaccine uptake in these communities.

Did You No? The MMR vaccine is typically given in two doses: the first at 12-15 months of age and the second at 4-6 years of age.

Measles Cases by Region

The province of Ontario has been particularly hard-hit.The following table summarizes regional measles case data.

Region Confirmed Cases Probable Cases Total Cases
Ontario Approx. 1,750 Data Not Available Approx.2,000
Canada (Excluding Ontario) Approx. 679 326 Approx. 755

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about your vaccination status, contact your healthcare provider to check your records or get vaccinated.

global Impact of Measles

Measles remains a significant public health challenge globally, particularly in regions with low vaccination coverage. The World Health Organization (WHO) and other international organizations are working to eliminate measles through increased vaccination efforts and improved surveillance.

the recent outbreaks in Canada and the united States underscore the importance of sustained vaccination efforts and international collaboration to prevent the spread of this highly contagious disease. Protecting vulnerable populations requires a collective commitment to vaccination and public health measures.

Are you up-to-date on your vaccinations? What steps can communities take to improve vaccination rates and protect against measles outbreaks?

The Importance of Herd Immunity

Herd immunity occurs when a large portion of a community becomes immune to a disease, making the spread from person to person unlikely. Consequently, the whole community is protected, not just those who are immune. Herd immunity is especially crucial for protecting individuals who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants too young to receive the vaccine and those with certain health conditions.

When vaccination rates decline, herd immunity weakens, increasing the risk of outbreaks. The measles virus spreads rapidly, so high vaccination coverage is essential to prevent transmission. Maintaining herd immunity requires a sustained effort to ensure that as many peopel as possible are vaccinated.

Frequently Asked Questions About Measles

  • What Are The Early Symptoms Of Measles?

    Early symptoms of measles typically include fever,cough,runny nose,and red,watery eyes. A rash usually appears a few days later, starting on the face and spreading to the rest of the body.

  • How Is Measles Spread?

    Measles spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. The virus can remain infectious in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left the area.

  • Is There A Treatment For Measles?

    There is no specific antiviral treatment for measles.Care focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing complications. This includes rest, fluids, and managing fever.

  • How Effective Is The MMR Vaccine?

    The MMR vaccine is highly effective. Two doses of the vaccine are about 97% effective in preventing measles.One dose is about 93% effective.

  • Who Should Receive The Vaccine?

    The CDC recommends that all children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine: the first at 12-15 months of age and the second at 4-6 years of age.Adults who are not immune to measles should also get vaccinated.

  • What Are Potential Complications?

    Measles can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and, in rare cases, death. Pregnant women who get measles are at risk for premature labor and low birth weight.

  • How Can I Protect My Family?

    The best way to protect your family is to ensure everyone is vaccinated with the MMR vaccine. Practice good hygiene,such as washing your hands frequently,to prevent the spread of germs.

Share this article to raise awareness about the importance of measles vaccination. What are your thoughts on this issue? leave a comment below.

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Health

COVID Vaccine & Pregnancy: CDC Advice Sparks Ethical Debate

by Priya Deshmukh
written by Priya Deshmukh

The Unethical Rollback of Covid Vaccine Recommendations for Pregnant People: A Looming Public Health Crisis

The decision by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr. to end the government’s recommendation for Covid-19 vaccination during pregnancy represents a dangerous step backward, potentially erasing years of progress in maternal and infant health. It’s a move not based on new scientific evidence, but one that actively disregards established benefits and ethical principles, leaving a particularly vulnerable population exposed to preventable risks.

The History of Exclusion: Why Pregnant People Are Often Left Behind

For decades, pregnant individuals have been systematically excluded from crucial biomedical research. This “pregnancy evidence gap,” as it’s known, isn’t accidental. It stems from a complex web of ethical concerns, legal liabilities, and a historical underestimation of the importance of including pregnant people in studies. The Zika epidemic spurred efforts like the PREVENT project – a roadmap for ethically including pregnant women in vaccine trials – but these advancements largely failed to translate into action during the initial stages of the Covid-19 pandemic. Vaccine developers, despite the removal of some legal obstacles through Operation Warp Speed, made little effort to generate pregnancy-specific data.

The Urgent Need for Maternal Vaccination During Covid-19

The consequences of this exclusion were stark. Pregnant people infected with Covid-19 faced significantly higher risks of hospitalization, preterm labor, stillbirth, and other severe complications. Their newborns were also at increased risk. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) rightly advocated for prioritizing pregnant individuals for vaccination, recognizing the lack of biological plausibility for harm and the potential for maternal antibodies to protect infants. Eventually, the U.S. reversed course, designating pregnant people as a high-risk group, but the initial delay undoubtedly led to preventable tragedies.

The Proven Benefits of Covid-19 Vaccination in Pregnancy

The good news was that Covid-19 vaccines, like the flu vaccine, became routinely recommended during pregnancy, offering a dual benefit: protecting both mother and child. Millions of pregnant women have safely received mRNA vaccines over the past four years, with no concerning safety signals identified. Crucially, vaccination during pregnancy provides infants with vital protection through the transfer of antibodies via the placenta. This is particularly important for babies under six months old, who are too young to be vaccinated themselves. A mother vaccinated during pregnancy can provide her infant with a significantly higher concentration of protective antibodies than if she remains unvaccinated.

The Ethical Implications of Kennedy’s Decision

Secretary Kennedy’s decision is not simply a policy shift; it’s an ethical failing. To treat pregnant people differently than other high-risk groups – such as those with asthma or diabetes – is unjustifiable. Pregnancy itself is an established risk factor for severe Covid-19 outcomes. Furthermore, withholding a proven intervention – vaccination – from pregnant people, while simultaneously offering it to others, violates fundamental principles of research ethics. A placebo-controlled trial, as suggested by Kennedy’s HHS, is ethically unacceptable when an effective intervention already exists.

Protecting the Most Vulnerable: Infants

Denying maternal vaccination also directly harms infants. Covid-19 in pregnancy increases the risk of stillbirth and preterm birth, and young infants are particularly vulnerable to severe disease. Maternal antibodies are currently the only way to protect these babies. The CDC clearly outlines the benefits of vaccination during pregnancy, yet current messaging on their website is confusing, with conflicting information regarding recommendations.

Looking Ahead: A Potential Erosion of Trust and Future Research

This reversal threatens to undermine decades of work building trust among pregnant women, their partners, and healthcare providers. Conflicting messages from public health agencies will only exacerbate hesitancy and make informed decision-making more difficult. The long-term consequences could extend beyond Covid-19, potentially hindering future efforts to include pregnant people in vital research. We risk returning to a system where this vulnerable population is consistently overlooked, jeopardizing their health and the health of future generations.

The path forward is clear: the CDC’s previous recommendation for Covid-19 vaccination during pregnancy must be reinstated. Each pregnant woman deserves access to accurate information and the opportunity to make an informed decision, free from political interference and based on sound scientific evidence. What are your predictions for the future of maternal vaccination policies? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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News

Measles Rates Drop: US Vaccination Concerns

by Alexandra Hartman
written by Alexandra Hartman

Urgent: Measles Cases Surge as Childhood Vaccination Rates Plummet – A National Crisis Unfolds

Table of Contents

Washington D.C. – June 2, 2024 – A concerning new study published today in JAMA reveals a critically important decline in childhood vaccination rates across the United States, leaving communities increasingly vulnerable to outbreaks of highly contagious diseases like measles, mumps, and rubella. The findings, analyzed by researchers at Johns Hopkins University, paint a stark picture of eroding immunity and a potential public health crisis.

Key Findings:

Widespread Decline: 78% of the 2,066 counties analyzed across 33 states experienced a drop in MMR vaccination rates between the pre-pandemic years (2017-2018) and the recent school years (2023-2024).
 Falling Below Herd Immunity: The average county-level vaccination rate has decreased from nearly 94% to approximately 91% – falling short of the crucial 95% threshold needed to maintain herd immunity against measles.
Measles Cases Soaring: As of May 29th,the CDC reports 1,088 confirmed measles cases in 33 jurisdictions nationwide. A staggering 96% of these cases are among individuals who were unvaccinated or had unknown vaccination status.
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what are the most effective strategies for combating vaccine hesitancy and misinformation surrounding the MMR vaccine,considering the increased risk of measles outbreaks in areas with declining vaccination rates?

Measles Rates Drop: A Positive Trend Amidst US Vaccination Concerns

The global fight against measles has seen some significant ups and downs. While the overall trend in the United States shows a welcome decrease in measles rates, underlining the efficacy of widespread vaccination programs, this progress is unluckily intertwined with continuing US vaccination concerns. Understanding the dynamics between these two opposing forces is crucial for public health.

The Decline of Measles cases: A Victory for Vaccination

The Measles, Mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, a cornerstone of preventative care, has been instrumental in drastically reducing the incidence of measles.Measles vaccine success is a direct result of the MMR vaccine. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) consistently highlight a correlation between high vaccination rates and decreased measles cases. Before the vaccine, measles – a highly contagious respiratory infection – posed a significant public health risk.

Key Factors Contributing to the Decrease

  • High Vaccination Coverage Rates: Areas with robust vaccination programs, including the MMR vaccine, exhibit considerably fewer measles outbreaks.
  • Public Health Initiatives: Proactive public health campaigns, like early diagnosis and treatment of measles, educate the public and promote vaccination.
  • International Cooperation: Global health partnerships have increased vaccination campaigns and measles surveillance in numerous other nations.

Underlying US Vaccination Concerns

Despite the success of the MMR vaccine,vaccination concerns and vaccine hesitancy persist,primarily fueled by misinformation. These concerns often manifest as a decline in vaccination rates in certain areas which can lead to a resurgence of this disease, including measles outbreaks. This paradox underscores the difficulties health professionals have when trying to achieve and maintain herd immunity and maintain public health.

Common Concerns and Misconceptions

  • Vaccine Safety: The most common issue is related to concerns about vaccine side effects and long-term harm. However, credible scientific evidence firmly supports the safety of the MMR vaccine.
  • Autism Link: The debunked link between the MMR vaccine and autism has been repeatedly refuted by large-scale studies.
  • Religious or Philosophical Objections: Some individuals and communities cite religious or philosophical beliefs as reasons for choosing not to vaccinate.
  • Mistrust of the Medical Establishment: Historical instances of medical misconduct and distrust fuel hesitancy.

Measles Outbreaks: Risks and Consequences

Despite overall improvements, measles outbreaks are more prevalent in areas where vaccination rates are low or declining. Outbreaks endanger both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals and can necessitate costly quarantine and control measures. Measles’ high contagiousness significantly amplifies its spread.

Consequences of Measles Outbreaks

  • Hospitalizations: Measles can cause severe illness, leading to pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death, especially in children and immunocompromised people.
  • Economic Impact: Outbreaks can drain healthcare resources, lead to lost productivity at work and school, and necessitate extra public health efforts.
  • community Fear and Disruption: Outbreaks can cause anxiety and disrupt normal social and economic functions.

the Importance of Staying Informed & Protecting Yourself

Preventing the spread of measles requires understanding the science and actively addressing US vaccination concerns. Responsible citizens must actively take steps to remain informed and protect themselves and those around them. This can be accomplished by researching reliable sources and considering vaccinations with licensed health providers if desired.

Actionable Steps to Take:

  • Consult Your Doctor: Discuss your vaccination status and any concerns regarding the MMR vaccine with your physician.
  • Rely on Reputable Sources: Seek data from credible sources such as the CDC, the World Health Institution (WHO), and trusted medical journals.
  • Vaccinate: Stay current with recommended vaccinations, including the MMR vaccine.
  • Advocate for Vaccination: Support and promote vaccination as a way to benefit public health as a whole.

Vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself, your family, and your community from this risky virus. Addressing vaccine hesitancy and promoting accurate information remain vital to safeguarding public health and minimizing the threat of measles outbreaks.

For a complete list of trusted scientific resources, visit the CDC website.

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