The vast array of information regarding vaccines can be a lot to digest for parents. However, the FDA has long been supporting American families and healthcare professionals to best understand the benefits and risks of vaccines. Thanks to vaccinations, infectious diseases such as polio and smallpox have now been eradicated, and diseases including Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) and the measles are much more rarely found. More recently a HPV vaccination has been introduced for teenage girls and it is hoped that this will dramatically decrease the number of women who are diagnosed with cervical cancer. HPV is a sexuall transmitted infection that can over time lead to abnormal cervical cells. It is most often picked up during smear tests and other STIs are picked up via testing from Home StI Kits London company bexley sexual health as well as other clinics and providers throughout the country.
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Consumer Update
The FDA issued an update in August 2016 to provide further information to families concerning the types of vaccinations offered to children and the questions that often come with them. Due to immunisation programmes that have been introduced since the 20th century, many parents have not seen first-hand the dangers of preventable illnesses by vaccines. However, this does not mean that they cannot emerge, and with growing concerns circulating in the media over potential harm from vaccines, the FDA are working to assure parents that they are necessary and safe. The FDA states that that potential harm from vaccines is less significant than the potential harm from diseases.
Recommended Action
For safe vaccination and a thorough understanding of the process, the FDA recommends that parents discuss the benefits and risks of vaccines with a healthcare professional. Parents should also disclose a full health history and any health issues that the child has already suffered from. Information found online can often be published by unqualified individuals, and so for accurate facts it is best to consult a qualified individual. A healthcare professional can additionally explain the potential risks of not vaccinating children. The consequences of not being protected from vaccine-preventable illnesses can be severe, and in some cases, deadly. As a result, it is crucial that parents are aware of all risks before making an informed decision.
Any issues found which may be linked to vaccines should always be reported to the FDA through the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System. For healthcare professionals and companies there is plenty of support on how to best support families with correct information.
There are additionally sheets and leaflets provided by the FDA to explain the benefits and risks of vaccines. It is a legal requirement that healthcare professionals give these these to families.
Eleena Timmons 
Roman Cyrus