Vaccination Investigation: The History and Science of Vaccines

Gr 8 Up—A bracing account of a doctor keeping patients with iron lungs alive sets the tone for this slim but succinct overview. Beginning with an explanation of infectious disease, Haelle briefly describes prevaccine advancements, such as better sewage treatment and improved food safety laws, before delving into science. Colorful diagrams explaining the immune system and replication of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) enhance the narrative. Early vaccination attempts are intriguingly described, as are antivaccination claims. Recent setbacks, such as the failed Lyme disease vaccine, as well as advancements in one for the Ebola virus, are detailed. The birth of the modern antivaccination movement, including the media's influential role in presenting a "both sides" environment and Andrew Wakefield's discredited study linking vaccines to autism, is an eye-opening segment. Readers will also encounter sections on herd immunity, the threat of climate change on preventable diseases, and further studies for vaccines to prevent the Zika virus and HIV/AIDS. Layout and design have a clean, attractive format. In this age of antiscience and antivaccination information, this is a valuable resource for students and adult patrons.