Classy Mommy Interview: Dr. Sears on The Vaccine Book
Classy Mommy had a chance to do a Q&A chat with Dr. Bob Sears, author of The Vaccine Book. Read all about it here!
Classy Mommy’s snapshot of The Vaccine Book:
As a Mom of a 2 year old and 3 month old, I loved The Vaccine Book. I found your writing style and research easy to digest. As a former pharmaceutical sales rep, I really appreciated your comprehensive research into the Product Inserts for each vaccine and your breakdown of each vaccine by brand to show the differences in ingredients dependent upon the manufacturer of each shot. That info coupled with your discussion on what ingredients could be controversial enables parents to draw their own conclusions about each vaccine so they can make the best decision for their children.
As a parent researching information on vaccines, I find the information available is at opposite ends of the spectrum – either 100% pro-vaccine per the CDC’s recommended immunization schedule or 100% anti-vaccine from medical experts on the fringe. Your book is the first resource out there that I’ve come across that is pro-vaccine, yet addresses the concept of a potentially “safer” alternative vaccine schedule for our children.
Classy Mommy: The Vaccine Book made a VERY compelling case for an alternative safe vaccine schedule. In your opinion why do you think more pediatricians do not share a similar concern?
Most pediatricians don’t have the time to research vaccines in detail on their own, which is very understandable. They simply must rely on the medical associations and policy makers to do the research for them and pass on general medical policies (such as the vaccine schedule) to them. So most doctors have never even heard the information that has led me to create a safer vaccine schedule because we aren’t taught about many of the potential problems with vaccines in medical school. It was my particular interest in vaccines that led me to do extensive research this on my own and come up with my alternative schedule. My schedule only gives two shots at a time, delays certain vaccines that aren’t needed in the first year, and spreads the shots out over several years instead of grouping all the infant vaccines into the first 18 months of life. My schedule does get children fully vaccinated eventually, it simply does so in a more logical manner that minimizes reactions and maximizes safety by not overloading young infants with so many chemicals all at once.
Classy Mommy: Do you think the recent, yet somewhat limited buzz about the case of Hannah Polling, might cause the medical community to start asking questions and researching the potential safety and side-effects of a 12 lb baby or an 18 month old toddler receiving “too many” vaccines simultaneously?
Actually, no. The American Academy of Pediatrics has already issued a statement regarding this matter that will probably sweep the issue under the carpet in most doctors’ minds. The AAP and the government have presented this case as an isolated occurrence due to Hannah’s underlying mitochondrial disorder that should almost never occur within the general population of children. However, I agree that at least some doctors will likely be more careful in the future with child who is behind on vaccines and not suddenly load them up with so many at once. That’s what happens to Hannah – she missed her 12 and 15 month shots, and so at the 18 month checkup the doctor gave her 6 months worth of shots all at once. Parents should also realize that Hannah’s shots had a lot of mercury back then, which isn’t the case today. So it is fair to say that children today don’t share all the same risks with vaccines that kids did prior to 2002 when mercury was still present.
Classy Mommy: Personally, after reading your book, I feel strongly about separating the MMR and Chicken Pox shots for my new baby boy. I understand pediatricians seem willing to support an “alternative vaccine schedule” except when it comes to the separation of the MMR and Chicken Pox vaccines.
What is the root cause of the reluctance of pediatricians to separate the MMR vaccine? (Is it the vaccine manufacturer, physician convenience, misinformation, economics and cost or a combination of all of the above?)
There are several issues here. First, the supply of the separated MMR vaccines has fluctuated over the years. Some shot supplies have been all used up and not available for as long as a year or more. So some doctors have it in their mind that these shots aren’t made anymore, so they won’t even try to order them. But overall, they are usually available; it just takes a little more effort. The biggest factor, however, is that doctors can only order these separate shots in 10-dose boxes. So they must have nine other patients who also want the separated MMR in order to provide them. Hopefully as more and more doctors get such a request from enough patients they will begin offering this alternative. It shouldn’t have anything to do with cost, since I’ve had no problems having insurance companies pay for the separate shots.
Classy Mommy: Families have likely invested many hours building a relationship and comfort zone with their pediatrician. The last thing they may want to do is find a brand new practice and start from scratch. If your medical practice seems unwilling to split the MMR vaccine, what recommendations do you have for parents who wish to separate the MMR and Chicken Pox vaccines?
If a family really wants to stay with their pediatrician, I suggest you simply continue to refuse the MMR shot. You can proceed with the Chickenpox shot at any time, since it is a separate vaccine. This gives you the opportunity to remind your doctor at each checkup that you are waiting for him to provide the separate shots. Since Measles, Mumps, and Rubella are so rare, I feel it is fairly safe to leave your child unprotected for a few years. You can always go ahead with the full MMR around age 4 which I feel is a safe age to get the full vaccine. Even in states with mandatory vaccine laws, parents can still usually delay the MMR this long.
Classy Mommy: The Vaccine Book and your blog are certainly doing their part to generate conversations about a safer approach to vaccinations. How do you think Moms like me can mobilize either on the Internet or within our own communities to make the Medical community more receptive to a suggested alternative vaccine schedule?
Write letters and opinion articles to as many newspapers and web news sources as you can. Get your friends and family involved. Another great way is for anyone who has a doctor who is friendly toward these ideas, as the doctor to email me through my website and ask to be put on my “Vaccine Friendly Doctor’s List”. This is a registry (by state) of doctors who will offer patients some alternatives and even welcome patients to choose to not vaccinate.
Classy Mommy: What do you say to the common, everyday parents who are trying desperately to find unbiased and clear answers to the question, “Should I vaccinate my child?”
As a pediatrician, I get asked this question everyday. In the old days, patients just did whatever the doctor ordered, no questions (or at least, not too many questions) asked. But when it comes to vaccines, giving parents a quick and easy “I think vaccines are safe and you really need to vaccinate your child” answer just doesn’t work. Parents want to know more. What are the possible side effects? What is the risk of catching a severe case of the diseases? Is mercury still in some vaccines? What other ingredients are in the shots? Do vaccines cause autism? Is it safe to give so many shots simultaneously? There’s no short answer to these and the myriad of other questions that parents have. The problem is, doctors only have about 15 minutes to spend with you at your baby’s checkup. This is just enough time to do an exam and answer some basic questions about feeding, development, and behavior. If you try to throw in a dozen vaccine questions at the end of your visit, do you really think you’ll get some open and thorough answers? Probably not.
Classy Mommy: So how can parents get complete and unhurried vaccine answers without getting kicked out of the doctor’s office?
Here’s what I do in my office. I ask parents to make a separate vaccine consultation appointment on a day separate from any checkup. Or I ask them to book a double appointment for their next checkup. If shots are due right then, I defer them until after we’ve had a chance to talk more. This way I can sit and listen to the parents’ concerns without feeling rushed, and give them the complete answers they deserve so they can make an educated decision about vaccines.
You have to do your part by not only making the separate appointment, but by thoroughly researching these issues ahead of time so you are well prepared. If your doctor senses you are already well educated on vaccines and their diseases, you’ll have a far more fruitful and mutually respectful conversation. By doing your homework and giving your doctor the time he or she needs, together you can develop a vaccine plan that you are both comfortable with. And you won’t find yourself out on the street looking for a new pediatrician.
Dr. Bob Sears is a father of three, pediatrician, and author in the best-selling Sears Parenting Library. His latest work, The Vaccine Book: Making the Right Decision for Your Child (Little Brown, 2007) highlights his passion for providing parents with a complete, unbiased, and authoritative look at this all-important decision. He also interacts online to keep parents informed with up-to-date information at www.TheVaccineBook.com . Dr. Sears is also an Advisor to HAPPYBABY.
Dr. Bob received his medical degree from Georgetown University School of Medicine and did his pediatric training at Childrens Hospital Los Angeles. He practices in Dana Point, California.
Classy Mommy’s snapshot of The Vaccine Book:
As a Mom of a 2 year old and 3 month old, I loved The Vaccine Book. I found your writing style and research easy to digest. As a former pharmaceutical sales rep, I really appreciated your comprehensive research into the Product Inserts for each vaccine and your breakdown of each vaccine by brand to show the differences in ingredients dependent upon the manufacturer of each shot. That info coupled with your discussion on what ingredients could be controversial enables parents to draw their own conclusions about each vaccine so they can make the best decision for their children.
As a parent researching information on vaccines, I find the information available is at opposite ends of the spectrum – either 100% pro-vaccine per the CDC’s recommended immunization schedule or 100% anti-vaccine from medical experts on the fringe. Your book is the first resource out there that I’ve come across that is pro-vaccine, yet addresses the concept of a potentially “safer” alternative vaccine schedule for our children.
Classy Mommy: The Vaccine Book made a VERY compelling case for an alternative safe vaccine schedule. In your opinion why do you think more pediatricians do not share a similar concern?
Most pediatricians don’t have the time to research vaccines in detail on their own, which is very understandable. They simply must rely on the medical associations and policy makers to do the research for them and pass on general medical policies (such as the vaccine schedule) to them. So most doctors have never even heard the information that has led me to create a safer vaccine schedule because we aren’t taught about many of the potential problems with vaccines in medical school. It was my particular interest in vaccines that led me to do extensive research this on my own and come up with my alternative schedule. My schedule only gives two shots at a time, delays certain vaccines that aren’t needed in the first year, and spreads the shots out over several years instead of grouping all the infant vaccines into the first 18 months of life. My schedule does get children fully vaccinated eventually, it simply does so in a more logical manner that minimizes reactions and maximizes safety by not overloading young infants with so many chemicals all at once.
Classy Mommy: Do you think the recent, yet somewhat limited buzz about the case of Hannah Polling, might cause the medical community to start asking questions and researching the potential safety and side-effects of a 12 lb baby or an 18 month old toddler receiving “too many” vaccines simultaneously?
Actually, no. The American Academy of Pediatrics has already issued a statement regarding this matter that will probably sweep the issue under the carpet in most doctors’ minds. The AAP and the government have presented this case as an isolated occurrence due to Hannah’s underlying mitochondrial disorder that should almost never occur within the general population of children. However, I agree that at least some doctors will likely be more careful in the future with child who is behind on vaccines and not suddenly load them up with so many at once. That’s what happens to Hannah – she missed her 12 and 15 month shots, and so at the 18 month checkup the doctor gave her 6 months worth of shots all at once. Parents should also realize that Hannah’s shots had a lot of mercury back then, which isn’t the case today. So it is fair to say that children today don’t share all the same risks with vaccines that kids did prior to 2002 when mercury was still present.
Classy Mommy: Personally, after reading your book, I feel strongly about separating the MMR and Chicken Pox shots for my new baby boy. I understand pediatricians seem willing to support an “alternative vaccine schedule” except when it comes to the separation of the MMR and Chicken Pox vaccines.
What is the root cause of the reluctance of pediatricians to separate the MMR vaccine? (Is it the vaccine manufacturer, physician convenience, misinformation, economics and cost or a combination of all of the above?)
There are several issues here. First, the supply of the separated MMR vaccines has fluctuated over the years. Some shot supplies have been all used up and not available for as long as a year or more. So some doctors have it in their mind that these shots aren’t made anymore, so they won’t even try to order them. But overall, they are usually available; it just takes a little more effort. The biggest factor, however, is that doctors can only order these separate shots in 10-dose boxes. So they must have nine other patients who also want the separated MMR in order to provide them. Hopefully as more and more doctors get such a request from enough patients they will begin offering this alternative. It shouldn’t have anything to do with cost, since I’ve had no problems having insurance companies pay for the separate shots.
Classy Mommy: Families have likely invested many hours building a relationship and comfort zone with their pediatrician. The last thing they may want to do is find a brand new practice and start from scratch. If your medical practice seems unwilling to split the MMR vaccine, what recommendations do you have for parents who wish to separate the MMR and Chicken Pox vaccines?
If a family really wants to stay with their pediatrician, I suggest you simply continue to refuse the MMR shot. You can proceed with the Chickenpox shot at any time, since it is a separate vaccine. This gives you the opportunity to remind your doctor at each checkup that you are waiting for him to provide the separate shots. Since Measles, Mumps, and Rubella are so rare, I feel it is fairly safe to leave your child unprotected for a few years. You can always go ahead with the full MMR around age 4 which I feel is a safe age to get the full vaccine. Even in states with mandatory vaccine laws, parents can still usually delay the MMR this long.
Classy Mommy: The Vaccine Book and your blog are certainly doing their part to generate conversations about a safer approach to vaccinations. How do you think Moms like me can mobilize either on the Internet or within our own communities to make the Medical community more receptive to a suggested alternative vaccine schedule?
Write letters and opinion articles to as many newspapers and web news sources as you can. Get your friends and family involved. Another great way is for anyone who has a doctor who is friendly toward these ideas, as the doctor to email me through my website and ask to be put on my “Vaccine Friendly Doctor’s List”. This is a registry (by state) of doctors who will offer patients some alternatives and even welcome patients to choose to not vaccinate.
Classy Mommy: What do you say to the common, everyday parents who are trying desperately to find unbiased and clear answers to the question, “Should I vaccinate my child?”
As a pediatrician, I get asked this question everyday. In the old days, patients just did whatever the doctor ordered, no questions (or at least, not too many questions) asked. But when it comes to vaccines, giving parents a quick and easy “I think vaccines are safe and you really need to vaccinate your child” answer just doesn’t work. Parents want to know more. What are the possible side effects? What is the risk of catching a severe case of the diseases? Is mercury still in some vaccines? What other ingredients are in the shots? Do vaccines cause autism? Is it safe to give so many shots simultaneously? There’s no short answer to these and the myriad of other questions that parents have. The problem is, doctors only have about 15 minutes to spend with you at your baby’s checkup. This is just enough time to do an exam and answer some basic questions about feeding, development, and behavior. If you try to throw in a dozen vaccine questions at the end of your visit, do you really think you’ll get some open and thorough answers? Probably not.
Classy Mommy: So how can parents get complete and unhurried vaccine answers without getting kicked out of the doctor’s office?
Here’s what I do in my office. I ask parents to make a separate vaccine consultation appointment on a day separate from any checkup. Or I ask them to book a double appointment for their next checkup. If shots are due right then, I defer them until after we’ve had a chance to talk more. This way I can sit and listen to the parents’ concerns without feeling rushed, and give them the complete answers they deserve so they can make an educated decision about vaccines.
You have to do your part by not only making the separate appointment, but by thoroughly researching these issues ahead of time so you are well prepared. If your doctor senses you are already well educated on vaccines and their diseases, you’ll have a far more fruitful and mutually respectful conversation. By doing your homework and giving your doctor the time he or she needs, together you can develop a vaccine plan that you are both comfortable with. And you won’t find yourself out on the street looking for a new pediatrician.
Dr. Bob Sears is a father of three, pediatrician, and author in the best-selling Sears Parenting Library. His latest work, The Vaccine Book: Making the Right Decision for Your Child (Little Brown, 2007) highlights his passion for providing parents with a complete, unbiased, and authoritative look at this all-important decision. He also interacts online to keep parents informed with up-to-date information at www.TheVaccineBook.com . Dr. Sears is also an Advisor to HAPPYBABY.
Dr. Bob received his medical degree from Georgetown University School of Medicine and did his pediatric training at Childrens Hospital Los Angeles. He practices in Dana Point, California.
posted by Classy Mommy at 2:20 PM
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Great interview! Classy Mommy, you have a knack for asking thoughtful and important questions. (I really enjoyed this article and linked to it on my "Tuesday Tours" column this week so that other parents can benefit).
Good work!
WONDERFUL interview! I am a huge fan of The Vaccine Book and so appreciate how accessible Dr. Sears is. Vaccine information is a passion of mine and I am so thankful when I see interviews such as this being published. Thank you!
Thanks! I just got Dr. Sears' book but haven't had time to really sit down and read it well yet. With our first daughter we followed the vax schedule bt dr Stephanie Cave with a couple of modifications. I'm not sure if we'll o that or Dr sears or a hybrid this time around.
I haven't heard of the book by Dr. Stephanie Cave... what is it called? What does she suggest? I'd love to hear more! Thanks for commenting... and how did your Doctor respond to the modified plans?
Thanks for this interview. I delay and select only the vaccines I feel are most important. If you wait until past age 2, there are many vaccines that are totally unnecessary. I'm going to look for Dr. Sears' book to read more of what he has to say. Kathy
Thanks! This was very helpful-- great questions.
Dr Sears is an idiot. It is morons like him who are causing the current outbreaks of measles because all you nits believe him over the real scientists and doctors who have studied infectious diseases and vaccines for years. He sould personally apologize to all the kids in San Diego who got measles because their parents were dumb enough to believe Dr. Sears.
Dr. Sears is no more guilty for measles cases (all innocuous for the most part) than the scoutmasters whose 4 children got killed by tornadoes. The measles cases were just an unlikely occurence.
Great information! Makes me rethink some things - I'll have to research some more.
Anonymous is the idiot. If he had actually read Dr. Sears' book he would know that Dr. Sears encourages parents to get their child vaccinated! As a parent who was considering not vaccinating my child, I changed my mind after reading all the information Dr. Sears presented about the diseases and the vaccines. He presents a very compelling argument for vaccinating against ALL diseases that have a vaccine, and only to those parents who feel more strongly against vaccination does he present a proposal for partial vaccination. The only difference between the recommended vaccine schedule and Dr. Sears' recommendations is that Dr. Sears presents a schedule that spreads the vaccines out so that a baby may be better able to handle the influx of chemicals and biochemical substances. Read the book, Anonymous, before calling anyone an idiot!
Love the interview! Great questions and his responses were really interesting too! The more information, the better when it comes to important topics such as these!