Immunization. A continuing need.

Many vaccines are available to prevent potentially fatal disease. It is especially important for all of us who provide care to review periodically the current recommendations, since they are not static. Changes are based not only on the availability of improved vaccines, but also on knowledge of the diseases and altering societal and epidemiologic circumstances. We owe it to all our patients to be meticulous in maintaining up-to-date immunization records as well as to be knowledgeable about the indications and contraindications for each vaccine. Finally, it is important to remember that the immunization status of adults has been overlooked too often. This is no longer justifiable in light of current knowledge.