Vaccination update. Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, mumps, rubella, measles.

Despite the availability of many effective vaccines, some vaccine-preventable diseases still cause significant morbidity and mortality. Increased prevention should be attainable through proper education about the efficacy and safety of vaccines, improved immunization rates, and adherence to recommended vaccination guidelines from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. Childhood immunization should include a complete diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis series and a measles, mumps, and rubella series. Booster doses for tetanus should be given every 10 years throughout life.