Immunization: An Era of Innovation

VACCINES HAVE PLAYED a significant and transformative role in our world, eradicating diseases that once killed millions. But overall the work is far from complete. As we celebrate our third year in publication, we begin by exploring innovations in vaccine research and technology. One of the more intriguing aspects of current research involves DNA vaccines, a technique that utilizes genetically engineered DNA to improve immune response. Researchers believe this method may hold the potential for battling both chronic and infectious diseases.

Of course, some diseases in the United States and other developed nations have increasingly been viewed as “historical” due to their extremely low rates of infection. Meningitis is one such disease, and while the incidence rate is low, bacterial meningitis remains a life-threatening disease that claims several hundred lives annually. Our Update on Meningitis feature spotlights the causes, symptoms and treatments for this rare but lethal disease, with inoculation remaining the best means of defense.

One of the most devastating diseases of the 20th century is acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). By 2015, it is estimated that 60 million people will have died of AIDS, but hope is on the horizon. Scientists have reported a successful HIV vaccine regimen that includes a DNA priming vaccine, followed by an attenuated poxvirus vaccine booster; clinical trials are promising, with a Phase IIb DNA vaccine now on its way to efficacy trials.

Also in this issue, our patient profile takes a more personal look at HIV/AIDS. Improved medications and treatment options have flipped the tables on this once-fatal disease, resulting in significantly lowered mortality rates. Now, clinicians are tasked with helping patients not only adhere to treatment plans, but also navigate the emotional and social implications of living long-term with HIV. This month’s profile looks at the stigmas and challenges of this disease from both a patient and provider perspective.

A vaccine issue would not be complete without a feature on influenza. Influenza: Past, Present and Future examines the strides and the setbacks since the infamous 1918 influenza pandemic claimed the lives of 50 million worldwide.While getting an annual flu vaccine remains the best way to prevent the spread of flu, the sad reality is that tens of thousands of people in the U.S. still succumb to flu-related complications each year. Those of us on the frontline recognize that more education, communication and effort are needed to help dispel common flu vaccine myths and ensure pandemic history does not repeat itself.

Beyond vaccines, biopharmaceuticals like intravenous immune globulin (IG) are both innovative and amazing in their ability to restore quality of life for patients living with chronic illness. Although it’s one of the safest biological products available, IG can present a whole host of unwanted side effects. The article Understanding and Treating IG Side Effects explores what patients and caregivers can expect during and after immune globulin infusions, and discusses possible treatment changes to mitigate side effects and their impact.

Finally, reimbursement remains high on everyone’s list of hot topics. Our article The ACA’s Impact on Vaccine Administration and Reimbursement discusses the many ways in which healthcare professionals who provide preventive vaccines will be affected by recent legislation.

We hope you find this issue insightful and helpful to you and your colleagues.

Helping Healthcare Care,

Patrick M. Schmidt

Publisher