Immunizations: the promise and the pitfalls.

Despite our success with eradicating smallpox and possibly poliomyelitis, the United States faces unacceptably low immunization levels among preschool-age children. The problems associated with ensuring complete protection of children from vaccine-preventable diseases are multifaceted. Many children remain at risk for potentially fatal diseases, and the easy transmissibility of these agents increases the threat of disease outbreaks. This commentary examines steps needed to improve immunization levels and pediatric primary care, access.