Ever wonder how the CDC makes the vaccine schedule? For example, how they decide when to start a dosing series (at birth versus a year of age versus age 11) or why pediatricians and other clinicians recommend the number of shots that we do?
Ever want to let them know your thoughts about how the schedule feels to you and what values you feel should contribute to changes?
This is your moment. For real.
Often, when I talk with families in clinic about immunizations they reflect a feeling of overwhelm by not only the number of vaccines their children receive at a given time, but the number of different inoculations that we give throughout childhood. Do you want to share your voice with those who make the schedule? Or your frustration, your confusion, or your knowledge about the vaccine schedule? This is a rare opportunity right here in the Puget Sound.
The CDC is holding 4 community meetings around the US to hear from and work with parents. They want parents to help shape the schedule and they want your help. One meeting is just north of Seattle on July 12th. The CDC wants to hear about your values, your priorities, and your needs while they set the vaccine schedule. Leadership from the CDC, along with state health educators, will be on hand to listen to you and exchange thoughts. There is even a $75 stipend if you register ahead of time and attend the whole event.
Register by filling out this form (click “survey” on the link)
I’ve got no disclaimer here–I am not involved in this meeting. I just think many of you may want to join. This is a great opportunity to contribute your wisdom in how we protect not only your child, but all of the children in our community from vaccine-preventable illness. This is a way to be heard by those who make decisions that form the vaccine schedule and discuss new changes. Join them?
Be an absolute advocate for a day.
- If you go, what will you say?
- Do you have questions, comments, or thoughts that I can share with the community meeting organizers?
- If you can’t make it, what would you say? (hint: I’ll pass it on)
Cal says
Would really love to attend this! Bad luck, I will not be around that day, but what a nice opportunity.
Julia says
My thought on this is that the decision really should be made by pediatric specialists, not by parents and the CDC would do better asking them their opinion – since they are the ones with the extensive education on vaccines and infant immune systems.
I was one of the many parents who was horrified at how many vaccines babies get. So, I went straight to the source and told my pediatrician and asked her to educate me on the drawbacks, benefits, and when it is wise to change the regularly suggested schedule. I also told her I was hesitant about some vaccines and I wanted her to educate me on why they are necessary. I asked her because I have not gone to medical school and even a solid week of intensive research on the internet could not give me the education that a medical doctor with a real extensive education and experience has.
But I think it’s good that posted it because I know a lot of parents want to be heard. I just hope that the CDC sticks to guidelines based in medical fact more than parental opinion.
Michele says
Thanks for this post and we do hope people will consider joining us for the meeting!
Julia – the decisions will still be made by CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) which is a group of physicians and immunization experts. But there is recognition that input from the public – including parents and health care providers who aren’t part of ACIP – can be important too. You can learn more about ACIP here: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/recs/acip/default.htm#about. And thanks for sharing your story about the process you went through to decide to vaccinate, I think it is helpful for other parents who have similar questions to know what helped someone else.
Jenny says
Just wondering if anyone knows–can we bring our babies to this?
AND
Is this the same meeting that will address the meningitis vaccines at an earlier age? I feel sort of confused…been seeing a few things about “Community Engagement” meeting and the “Meningitis Vaccine” decisions. Is this the same meeting?
Thanks for any info!
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD says
I suspect you could bring an infant (however, I haven’t confirmed this) but I know there was a move to have childcare for older children (and compensation) for those who did early registration. Click on the link again and see if still available. And yes, this is the same meeting to talk about meningitis vaccine during infancy and also community thoughts regarding values and immunizations.
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD says
Here’s a summary of the event. Please share more if you have them!
https://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2015589930_vaccines13m.html#.Th3X27W17rE.twitter
M says
Just saw this article about a provider refusing to treat children who have not been vaccinated, for the safety of the other patients in his practice. I agree, but curious about your thoughts, as a provider.
https://shine.yahoo.com/channel/parenting/pediatricians-turn-away-kids-who-arent-vaccinated-2509592
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD says
M,
There is a valid argument (from an ethics standpoint) to do so. But it’s not my style. I feel all children deserve an exceptional chance and those children who have parents who refuse vaccinations have no choice to change the outcome. Children need great docs and putting a line in the sand and refusing care to those children who have parents with different philosophies/choices isn’t helpful.
I’ll tell you, though, I care deeply about my patients and will fight for their safety. As infection rates rise (if they do), I could move to only see patients follow CDC/AAP guidelines on immunizations to protect those who come to see me.
But it’s just not where I am now. Often, families who at first refuse, get their children vaccinated after discussing concerns with me and reviewing my recommendations. I want a shot at that discussion and I’m willing to spend the time.