An overview of Dr. Robert Sears' Book, The Vaccine Book

by Kim Nearpass:

   Many parents do not question the recommendation to vaccinate their children against infectious disease according to the standard schedule.  However, more and more, parents are wondering if vaccination is the best decision for their children.  And, as new vaccines are introduced, the decision becomes more difficult.  In the state of Colorado, like 19 others, it is a parent's legal right to make this decision for their children.  Whether or not families choose to vaccinate, they are entitled, and I would argue, obligated, to be fully informed about vaccines, their risks and their benefits.  Most doctors, including myself, do not have a mental store of every detail of every vaccine, nor have they reviewed all of the research.  Furthermore, most do not have time to discuss it all with patients during a regular health check-up.

   In terms of public health, there is very little controversy that vaccines are a good thing.  However, right or wrong, parents don't usually make decisions based on the general public, but rather, what's best for their individual child.  In order to make these decisions, parents must be informed. 

   The goal of Dr. Sears, in writing The Vaccine Book, is not to convince parents to vaccinate or not to vaccinate.  The book is neither pro-vaccine, nor anti-vaccine, but rather, the most balanced, comprehensive, up-to-date, well researched, objective and informative summary of modern vaccines for parents, as well as medical providers, that I have read.  Most other books on vaccines are anti-vaccine, and create more questions, fears and anxiety for parents.

   Dr. Sears presents the information in a clear and concise fashion.  He has a chapter for each vaccine, in which he presents detail about the disease, how it is made, the ingredients and side effects.  Dr. Sears then concludes each section with reasons the vaccine is beneficial, travel considerations, reasons people may choose not to get the vaccine, and a few factual tidbits and professional opinions. 

   As a medical provider, it is my responsibility to educate and inform parents, as well as to support them in ensuring the success of their children.  Having access to objective, scientifically researched information helps patients be better and more engaged parents.  For families in my practice, I am thrilled to have this information available.  I will highly recommend The Vaccine Book to all new and expecting parents, along with other parenting information.  And, it will be at the top of my list of resources for any parent who is questioning whether vaccination is best for their child. 

   I recommend that all health care providers who work with young children read this book and visit Dr. Sear's web site, www.TheVaccineBook.com.