The US vaccine panel discussed last week in Atlanta, the waning effectiveness on new shots. The issue of waning protection was discussed by the Advisory committee on Immunization Practices. The federal panel of experts recommends what vaccines children and adults should receive and when.
The vaccines discussed were Flu, Mumps and the Hepatitis B. The hepatitis B virus can destroy the liver and lead to death. New infections fell after vaccines became widely available in the 1980s and were later included in childhood shots thus causing the number of new cases to fall. The virus is spread though contact with blood or other bodily fluids. Experts have noted signs of faltering protection, particularly in diabetes and older adults. A recurring problem is being seen with outbreaks in assisted living facilities and nursing homes.
A new vaccine called Heplisav-B, is being studied with impressive results, but is awaiting FDA approval. The vaccine panel was expected to discuss the vaccine; however, they will not take a recommendation vote until a vaccine is licensed.
We should keep in mind, no vaccine is perfect, and it can take many years to find out how well a new vaccine works and how long it lasts.
https://www.usatoday.com
