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Common Symptoms and Concerns in Children |
Useful Sites
Childhood Immunization Scheduler (CDC)
About this site: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Childhood Immunization Scheduler gives parents inoculation recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). Enter your child's birth date and you'll get back a list of shots she should have from birth up to age 5. The scheduler also asks for your child's name, but it will still work if you don't feel like entering that information. The recommended shots are listed by age of the child and by date, based on the birth date you entered. The date entry makes it handy to mark your own calendar with a reminder to make the necessary appointment with your pediatrician. (http://www2.cdc.gov/nip/scheduler_le/default.asp)  Pluses: Each vaccine listed is linked to an in-depth information sheet about the vaccine and the disease it helps prevent. Included on the information sheet are possible side effects to watch for, who should and shouldn't receive a shot, and a list of resources for more information.  Minuses: The Scheduler only makes recommendations for your child from birth to age 5, so it isn't helpful for older children.  Best feature: Reliable information at whatever level you choose. If you just want to see what shots your child will need, it's useful at that level. More in-depth information about the vaccine, diseases, or links to other sites is there for you as well. |
National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP)
About this site: Most children who receive measles, mumps, or tetanus vaccines suffer no ill effects. But a rare few can become disabled or even die. This government-sponsored site outlines the federal system designed to compensate those who have lost a loved one or been injured by a childhood vaccine. (http://www.hrsa.gov/osp/vicp/INDEX.HTM) Pluses: Step-by-step instructions on how to file a compensation claim. Minuses: May need a lawyer to decipher claim instructions and win case. Best feature: The Vaccine Injury Table lists the possible side effects and injuries associated with specific immunizations. |
Dr. Greene's HouseCalls
About this site: Think house calls are a thing of the past? Then check out this award-winning site. Pediatrician Alan Greene answers a wide range of childhood illness questions and participates in live chats, bringing clear and useful health information right to your home computer. (http://www.drgreene.com/) Pluses: Questions are answered thoroughly and in great detail. Minuses: The case-by-case nature of questions and answers may obscure general childhood illness information. Best feature: Dr. Greene holds live chats each day. |
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